Story by Peter Chivhima
CAROLINE Chari (13), who was mauled to death by six dogs on Monday has been buried at Solar Farm compound cemetery in Stapleford.
Classmates, teachers, relatives and neighbours gathered at the Solar Farm Compound Cemetery in Stapleford, Mashonaland West to bury Caroline who died after being mauled by six dogs on Monday. Caroline, a bright and promising Grade Seven pupil was attacked by dogs while walking home from school.
Tears flowed as classmates, teachers, and neighbors gathered to say goodbye to a young girl whose potential was cruelly cut short.
Her classmates shared emotional tributes, recalling her as a dedicated student and a kind friend.
“It is hard to believe she is gone. Caroline was not just a classmate, she was my best friend. We used to revise together every day after school. She always had a smile, even on tough days and to see her empty chair and it breaks my heart,” a classmate said.
“She was the smartest in our group, always helping others. Caroline encouraged us to do better in school. We were planning to celebrate after the exams. Now we are mourning instead, it is just painful. She did not deserve to go like that. We already miss her so much,” another added.
“I was with her on the day she died, and I told her to use another way, but she refused saying it is too far. I was shocked when I heard about the incident,” a classmate narrated.
Officials from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education also attended the funeral, expressing their sorrow and calling for greater efforts to protect children.
“We are in deep pain. When we first heard the news, it was too difficult to accept. Today, we are comforted that we have seen where she was laid to rest. She has left a void that will be hard to fill. To the parents, please help us comfort the children and teachers they are heartbroken. And let us all work together to protect our children. For us, it’s not easy to remove her name from the school register,” Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education’s Schools Inspector-Zvimba District, Mrs Edith Marime
Caroline’s father, Mr. George Chari, spoke of the heartbreak and unfulfilled dreams.
“I do not have much to say but it is so painful to lose a child. She was too bright and all hopes are dashed,” he said.
Meanwhile, Gift Jambaya, the owner of the dogs, who faces charges of culpable homicide, is expected to appear in the Chinhoyi Regional Court on Monday for a bail ruling.
