Sibusisiwe Melody Marapira, daughter of Nehemiah Mutendi, leader of the Zion Christian Church, has filed for divorce from Deputy Minister Davis Marapira, bringing to an end a marriage that has lasted nearly 13 years.
According to court documents filed at the High Court under case number HCHF1618/26, the couple married on September 7, 2013, in Masvingo and have three children together, two of whom are minors.
In the summons filed through her legal representatives, Danana Mharapara Attorneys, Sibusisiwe states that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. The filing describes a relationship marked by alleged physical, emotional and financial mistreatment, which she says made continuation of the marriage impossible.
The application further claims she experienced dehumanising and cruel treatment during the marriage and alleges that threats were made against her life. The documents also reference alleged extramarital relationships and the customary marriage of another woman during the subsistence of the union.
In the application, Sibusisiwe states she has lost love and affection for her husband and believes reconciliation is no longer possible.
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The proceedings outline disputes relating to child custody and the division of matrimonial property. She is seeking sole custody of the two minor children together with maintenance of US$500 per child per month, payment of school fees, medical aid cover, medical expenses and provision for an annual regional or international holiday for the children.
The application indicates she is not seeking spousal maintenance, citing gainful employment.
Among the assets listed for distribution are the matrimonial home in Borrowdale, Harare, and the 426-hectare Lamotte Farm in Masvingo. The filing also references a dairy enterprise at the farm, beneficiary rights to government-allocated properties in Beatrice, Borrowdale and Masvingo, as well as Stand 4 Clipsham Township A in Masvingo.
Vehicles and farming equipment cited in the documents include a Land Rover Defender, Toyota Land Cruiser, Ford Ranger and Nissan Navara, alongside tractors, centre pivots and dairy machinery.
According to the court record, the summons was served on May 18, 2026, at an address along Liberation Legacy Way in Harare. Marapira has ten days to enter an appearance to defend the matter should he choose to contest the divorce or the proposed division of assets.
The matter is expected to proceed before the High Court.
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