Botswana farmer, employee face human trafficking charges over Zimbabwean minor
GABORONE – Local farmer Reuben Masesane and his Zimbabwean employee Nkosilathi Moyo are on trial at Gaborone High Court, accused of conspiring to traffic a Zimbabwean minor from Zocholo village in December 2019 to work on Masesane’s farm in Letswatswe lands near Lentsweletau.
Social worker Tlhopho Kebalepile’s assessment revealed allegations that Moyo smuggled a Zimbabwean minor into Botswana through an unauthorized border point and then transported the minor via Francistown to Lentsweletau.
“The minor recounted being taken to a farm with luxurious homes where Mma Pretty introduced him to owner Mr. Tema promising P800 monthly and new clothes for vaccinating sheep and goats. However, he allegedly received none of these benefits, instead facing mistreatment, forced labour and unpaid household chores.”
She emotionally recounted rescuing a young Zimbabwean boy from Tema’s farm in 2020 who was found to be deeply traumatized.
“The boy was traumatized, speaking only Ndebele, and had no ID to verify his age. We took him to a safe house, providing food, clothing, toiletries, and therapy. Later, a pathologist confirmed he was born in 2008”.
She adds, “Four years after finding refuge in the safe house, the minor’s transformation is striking. He’s acquired English language skills through daily interactions with fellow residents. Notably, he’s forged a strong connection with a Nigerian youth, a fellow trafficking survivor and age mate, fostering a sense of community and understanding”,said Kebalepile.
Defense attorney Gabaikanngwe Kebalepile launched his cross-examination at this pivotal moment, claiming the witness was manipulating facts to falsely accuse his clients.
“Tema’s farm has consistently relied on vegetable growers, with no history of hiring herdsmen for his livestock and he is unaware of any trafficking allegations.”
“The witness should refrain from citing the pathologist’s report, as she does not possess personal knowledge of its contents, the pathologist has not yet provided testimony in court and the accuracy of the method used to determine the minor’s age has not been verified.”
“The witness firmly asserted that she witnessed the pathologist utilize X-ray, body fluid and pubic hair analysis to determine the minor’s age, she is merely fulfilling her duty to safeguard the child’s well-being,” he said.
The duo pleaded not guilty to the charges. Meanwhile, Ndlovu remains in custody awaiting bail, while Tema has been released on bail.
The trial continues.
