Beatrice – A two-year-old boy has tragically died after sustaining severe burns during a traditional zumbani steaming session at Fresney Farm in Beatrice. The incident, reported by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), has sent shockwaves through the local community and serves as a grim reminder of the dangers associated with handling hot water around young children.
According to police reports, the fatal accident occurred on 15 August 2025 while the child and his mother were participating in a customary steaming ritual. Zumbani, a local herb widely used for its perceived medicinal and therapeutic benefits, was combined with hot water to create a steaming session, which is a common practice in many households.
During the session, the toddler accidentally came into contact with a plastic container filled with hot water. The container toppled, spilling scalding liquid onto the child’s right side and neck. The severity of the burns caused immediate critical injuries, prompting an urgent call for medical assistance.
Emergency responders rushed the boy to Beatrice Hospital. Despite the swift intervention, doctors were unable to save him, and he was pronounced dead upon arrival. Authorities described the incident as a preventable accident, emphasizing the need for vigilance when young children are present around hot liquids.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police express our condolences to the family for their devastating loss. This tragic incident highlights the importance of exercising extreme caution when using hot water or engaging in steaming sessions, especially when toddlers are involved,” a police spokesperson said.
Family and community members have been left in shock, struggling to come to terms with the sudden death of the toddler. Neighbors at Fresney Farm described the family as close-knit and attentive, and many voiced their sorrow at the heartbreaking loss.
Tragic Accident: Toddler Dies Following Zumbani Steaming Incident at Fresney Farm
“Accidents happen so quickly, especially with young children,” said one local resident. “We must all be careful when using hot water or other dangerous items around toddlers. It only takes a second for something terrible to occur.”
Traditional steaming with zumbani is widely practiced in Zimbabwe for its purported health benefits, including relief from colds, flu, and other minor ailments. While the practice remains culturally significant, health officials have repeatedly warned that steaming sessions must be conducted with the utmost care, particularly when children are present.
“Zumbani steaming can be beneficial for adults when done correctly, but it is not safe for toddlers unattended near hot water. We urge caregivers to ensure that children are kept at a safe distance from any hot liquids or containers,” said a local health officer.
The tragic incident has sparked renewed calls from authorities for public awareness campaigns around household safety. Officials stress that many domestic accidents, including burns and scalds, are preventable with simple precautions such as keeping containers of hot water out of reach, supervising children at all times, and using heat-resistant vessels when possible.
In addition to immediate supervision, experts recommend that caregivers familiarize themselves with basic burn first-aid measures. “If a child suffers a burn, it is important to cool the affected area immediately with cold running water and seek medical attention promptly. Early intervention can significantly reduce the severity of injuries,” the health officer added.
The Fresney Farm incident also underscores broader challenges faced by rural communities where traditional practices intersect with modern safety concerns. While customs like zumbani steaming hold cultural importance, authorities highlight the need to adapt these practices in ways that prioritize the well-being of vulnerable children.
Zimbabwe Republic Police and local authorities have pledged to continue educating families on safe practices during traditional rituals and household activities. They stress that awareness, supervision, and careful handling of hot liquids are critical in preventing such heartbreaking accidents in the future.
For the family of the toddler, the loss is unimaginable. Friends and neighbors continue to visit Fresney Farm to offer support, but the void left by the young child’s death is profound. Community leaders have called for collective vigilance to ensure that similar tragedies do not occur elsewhere.
As investigations conclude, the police have reaffirmed that no foul play is suspected, and the incident is being treated as an unfortunate domestic accident. The focus remains on raising public awareness, ensuring proper safety measures during traditional practices, and preventing further loss of young lives.
This tragic accident serves as a stark reminder that even everyday household activities, including culturally significant rituals like zumbani steaming, require careful attention when children are present. Authorities urge all caregivers to learn from this incident and take proactive steps to safeguard the youngest members of their families.
Source- ZimEye
