Johnson Progress

A two-year-old boy from Fresney Farm in Beatrice lost his life in a tragic accident during a traditional steaming ritual known as kunatira or ukuthunqisela.

 

The toddler died after accidentally touching a plastic dish filled with boiling water, which spilled onto his body, causing severe burns.

 

According to police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the incident occurred on Thursday, 15 August 2025, while the child was with his mother under a steaming blanket using hot water and zumbani.

 

“The ZRP reports a sad incident which occurred at Fresney Farm, Beatrice, where a two-year-old male infant died after suffering burns from hot water,” Nyathi said.

 

The child suffered burns on his right side and neck and was rushed to Beatrice Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

 

Nyathi urged families to exercise extreme caution when steaming, especially with young children.

 

“The police are deeply saddened by the case, urging families to be cautious when steaming with young children around,” he said.

 

The incident has sparked heated debate online, with some expressing sympathy and sadness, while others questioned whether the full truth had been told about what really happened.

 

Some social media users expressed skepticism about the official account of the incident.

 

@MazvimbakupaK questioned the circumstances surrounding the child’s death, saying, “The mother knows the truth, not this cooked-up version. Unless the mother said the kid was lying on the floor.”

 

Others, like @zimyeropa, expressed sadness, saying, “Very sad,” while @lennox_mhlanga simply responded with “Eish.”

 

The incident highlights the importance of exercising caution when engaging in traditional practices that involve hot water and steam, especially when young children are present.

 

The police’s call for caution serves as a reminder of the potential dangers associated with these practices.

 

As the community mourns the loss of the young child, many are left wondering how such tragedies can be prevented in the future.

 

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and caution when engaging in traditional practices that involve potential hazards.