Youth Leader Sentenced to 14 Years Over Sexual Offence Involving Minor

By sibongile Kumwenda

The Senior Resident Magistrate Court in Nkhata Bay has sentenced Tremour Chirambo, a 25-year-old Chairperson of the Mpamba Youth Network, to 14 years in prison with hard labour for engaging in unlawful sexual conduct involving a 14-year-old girl.

State Prosecutor Andrew Singini informed the court that the incidents occurred between May 13 and 16, 2025, when the girl, a Standard 7 learner from Mathamanda Primary School, stayed at Chirambo’s home following a disagreement with her guardian.

Singini explained that although the two were reportedly in a relationship, the law clearly protects individuals under the age of 18, and any such conduct is a serious offence regardless of consent. He emphasized that Chirambo, as a youth leader, had a duty to set a positive example and uphold the rights of children.

In his mitigation statement, Chirambo claimed that civil society organisations had not adequately raised awareness about the legal consequences of such actions, suggesting that public education had focused more on HIV prevention than child protection.

However, the prosecution argued for a deterrent sentence, stressing that Chirambo had abused his influence and position in the community.

Delivering judgment, Seniory Resident Magistrate Godfrey Nyirenda agreed with the state’s position, noting that Chirambo’s role as a youth leader made the offence even more serious. He then sentenced him to 14 years imprisonment with hard labour.