AGRICULTURE, Fisheries and Water Resources Development deputy minister Davis Marapira has been drawn into a high-profile legal battle after his wife, Sibusisiwe Melody Marapira (née Mutendi), daughter of prominent Zion Christian Church (ZCC) leader Bishop Mutendi, approached the High Court seeking a decree of divorce.
The case places Marapira at the centre of proceedings that intertwine political office, faith leadership and family ties.
The legal proceedings, filed under case number HCHF1618/26, reveal a marriage that has “irretrievably broken down” after nearly 13 years.
The couple got married in Masvingo on September 7, 2013, under the Marriages Act.
The legal proceedings are being handled by Danana Mharapara Attorneys, who are the legal practitioners for the plaintiff, Sibusisiwe.
In a declaration filed with the High Court, Sibusisiwe Marapira paints a picture of a domestic life defined by “dehumanising, abusive and cruel treatment”.
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She alleges that she has been subjected to physical, emotional and financial abuse.
Most distressingly, the court papers claim that the deputy minister went as far as issuing death threats against her.
Beyond the allegations of violence, Sibusisiwe claims her husband “persistently maintained adulterous relationships with several women” throughout the marriage.
She further alleges that Marapira “customarily married one of the various women” while still legally married to her.
Consequently, she states that she has lost all matrimonial love and affection for him.
The marriage was blessed with three children, two of whom are still minors.
Sibusisiwe is praying for sole custody of the minor children, citing their best interests.
She is also seeking a maintenance order requiring Davis Marapira to contribute US$500 per month per child and full payment of school fees, uniforms, and tertiary education costs.
Sibusisiwe is also praying for coverage of all medical expenses and medical aid and funding for one international or regional holiday trip per year for the children.
The divorce filing has brought the couple’s significant wealth into the public eye, listing several immovable properties and a fleet of luxury vehicles.
Sibusisiwe is requesting a 50/50 split of many assets, though she specifically prays for the Borrowdale home at 589 Campbell Road and a 50% share of the 426-hectare Lamotte Farm in Masvingo.
Other notable assets listed in the claim include stand 4 Clipsham Township A in Masvingo, beneficiary rights to government-allocated properties in Beatrice, Borrowdale and Masvingo and a dairy business at Lamotte Farm.
The estranged wife is also seeking access to high-end vehicles: A Land Rover Defender, Toyota Land Cruiser, Ford Ranger and a Nissan Navara.
Other contested assets include farm machinery, including three centre pivots, two tractors and a milking machine set.
The summons, dated April 17, 2026, was officially served by the Sheriff of Zimbabwe on May 18, 2026, at an address on Liberation Legacy Way in Harare.
Marapira was given 10 days from the date of service to enter an appearance to defend if he intends to contest the divorce or the proposed division of assets.
According to the latest court filings, Sibusisiwe, who is gainfully employed, is not seeking spousal maintenance for herself.