Harare was gripped by a wave of sorrow on Monday as news spread of the tragic deaths of two young children, Atidaishe Makechemu (10) and Atipaishe Makechemu (8), who succumbed to asphyxiation in their Kuwadzana Extension home. The incident, which unfolded in a horrifying sequence of events, also saw their two siblings, aged 14 and 4, and their mother rushed to hospital after inhaling fumes from a burning pot of rice.
The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Monday morning, has left the community reeling in shock and disbelief. Neighbours described the family as quiet and well-respected, adding to the sense of profound sadness that has enveloped the area.
“It’s just a terrible tragedy. They were a lovely family, always friendly and helpful. It’s just heartbreaking to think what they’ve gone through,” said the family’s neighbour who only identified herself as Mai Kuda.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the incident in a statement, providing details of the harrowing discovery. “The victims and their other two siblings aged 14 and 4, as well as their mother, were found lying unconscious in a room that was engulfed in smoke,” the statement read. “There was a pot of rice burnt to ashes on the stove.”
The ZRP confirmed that the two deceased children, Atidaishe and Atipaishe, were pronounced dead upon arrival at a local clinic in Kuwadzana. The remaining three victims, including their mother, were transferred to Sally Mugabe Hospital where they are currently receiving treatment.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but initial reports suggest that the pot of rice may have been left unattended, leading to the blaze. The intense heat and smoke from the fire quickly filled the room, causing the family to lose consciousness.
