A tragic incident unfolded in Chipazi village, Dotito, during a cleansing ceremony intended to enhance the abilities of traditional healers, resulting in the death of a well-known herbalist.
Emily Chiduwa, 67, who was recognized for helping women with fertility issues, consumed a concoction made from fermented local tobacco (chambwa/mbande) prepared by 23-year-old sangoma Dorica Masunungure.
According to provincial police spokesperson Sergeant Major Samuel Chikasha, the incident occurred in September when Masunungure visited her in-laws in Dotito.
Chiduwa sought out Masunungure to boost her healing powers and was advised to bring the fermented tobacco for the ceremony.
On October 2, around 5 a.m., Masunungure boiled the tobacco in a clay pot to create the mixture, which she then administered to Chiduwa as a sap. Shortly after consuming the concoction, Chiduwa began to vomit and lost control of her bowels.
She attempted to rest until 2 p.m., but her condition worsened significantly.
Chiduwa was subsequently taken to Mt Darwin Hospital, where she was pronounced dead at approximately 7 p.m. Masunungure now faces charges of culpable homicide in connection with the incident.
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