Grade 7 pupil helps deliver neighbour's baby

A 14-year-old Grade 7 pupil from Macheke has become a local heroine after courageously assisting in the safe delivery of her 18-year-old neighbour's baby - while elderly women, including her own mother, fled the scene in panic.

The remarkable incident occurred at Mhiripiri Shopping Centre under Chief Makoni in Macheke when the young expectant mother, Ruth, went into labour just as she was preparing to leave for the hospital.

As panic gripped onlookers, Chiedza Mushunje, who had just completed her Grade Seven examinations at Tashinga Primary School, stepped forward and calmly helped deliver the baby using basic knowledge she had learned from family health education lessons and community talks.

Moments later, the cries of a newborn filled the air — a sound that brought emotional relief to the shocked community members who had fled moments earlier.

Both mother and baby were later transferred to Marondera Provincial Hospital, where they are reported to be in stable condition.

In an interview, Chiedza said she drew courage from First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa's Nhanga/Gota/Ixhiba programmes, which encourage girls to be strong, responsible, and ready to help others in times of need.

"I was sweeping the house when I heard our neighbour Ruth crying for help," she recalled.
"When I saw she was about to give birth, I just acted. I remembered what our First Lady always says — that as girls we must never be afraid to help and show leadership. So, I tore her underwear to allow for a smooth delivery, and a few minutes later, the baby came out."

Chiedza said she was the only one who stayed behind as the adults ran away in fear.

"My mother and other women were shouting from a distance, throwing blankets, but I continued. I just wanted to save the baby," she said.

She said Dr Mnangagwa's teachings about bravery (kushinga) inspired her to act decisively.

"Amai Mnangagwa always tells us that courage begins within us — that even in difficult situations, we must act to help others. I remembered those words," Chiedza said.

Chiedza's mother, Mrs Teclar Mushumbi, admitted she panicked when Ruth went into labour outside their home.

"We were trying to find a car to take her to the hospital, but then she started bleeding, and we all ran away. Chiedza was the only one brave enough to help. She caught the baby and wrapped it with blankets we threw to her. If she hadn't been there, the baby could have fallen to the ground," she said.

Granny Esther Chinguruve, who later arrived to cut the umbilical cord, was emotional as she recounted the event.

"I was deeply moved. At her age, she showed the kind of courage that saves lives. What she did was not her duty — it was pure bravery," she said.

Witnesses at the scene praised Chiedza's quick thinking and compassion.

Kuziva Hamera, who was nearby, said:

"The young mother was crying for help, but no one came forward. Then this little girl ran and did what even the elders couldn't. She's our hero."

Another witness, Mrs Evermore Tsakatire, added:

"We were all terrified, but this young girl remained calm. I just threw her a blanket from afar. Her confidence humbled us."

Local residents have described Chiedza's fearless act as a "true reflection of the First Lady's vision of an empowered and compassionate girl child."

Village elder Emmanuel Manyere said:

"All the adults ran away, but Chiedza risked everything to save a life. We are proud of her. She is a blessing to our community."

Chiedza said the experience taught her the importance of patience and self-control among young girls.

"Ruth gave birth at 18 and wasn't even sure of her pregnancy months. Amai Mnangagwa always tells us not to rush into relationships or early pregnancies. I will encourage my peers to finish school first," she said.

Chiedza's bravery has earned her admiration across Macheke — a powerful reminder that courage, compassion, and leadership know no age.