Mothers of the Night: Emakhandeni's Women-Led Neighbourhood Watch Takes on Crime

While most mothers in Emakhandeni are tucking their children into bed, Fadzai Nzou is preparing for a different kind of night shift. At 47, Nzou is a mother of two and a single parent who has joined a vigilant neighbourhood watch team that patrols the streets, giving residents peace of mind that their lives and property are in safe hands.

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Five years ago, Nzou's family begged her to stay inside, fearing for her safety amidst a surge in stabbings, muggings, and armed robberies. Instead, she became part of the solution. "As a single mother, I couldn't just sit back and watch while residents complained about crime," Nzou said.

Nzou is now part of a neighbourhood watch committee that has been keeping the area safe for five years. She was joined by two other women, including Rebecca Malenga, who says the work is dangerous but necessary. "What men can do, we can also do," Malenga said. "We patrol the suburb as a group, and we won't back down from confronting criminals."

The risks they face are real. Nzou recalls a midweek patrol near a stream behind Emakhandeni Primary School, where they encountered two men, one of whom pulled out a gun and fired a shot. Luckily, no one was hit.

Tragedy struck early last month when member Godfrey Muzanenhamo was shot in the head while questioning suspects. Despite the loss, the women remain on the front lines, appealing to the public for raincoats and work suits to help them brave the elements.

"Any assistance to help us take care of our children will also go a long way," Malenga said. The community's bravery and dedication are a testament to the power of community-led initiatives in keeping neighbourhoods safe.