HARARE, Zimbabwe — Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) Commissioner Dr Martin Muduva has died after allegedly being attacked with an axe during a suspected domestic dispute in Dzivarasekwa Extension, Harare.

Muduva reportedly succumbed to his injuries at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals on Wednesday morning, September 9, 2026, after being admitted following the incident on Tuesday night.
According to reports, Muduva was allegedly struck twice with an axe. His wife was also taken to hospital and reportedly died after allegedly ingesting poison.
The circumstances surrounding the deaths remain under investigation, and authorities have not yet released a comprehensive account of what led to the incident.
ZHRC Confirms Commissioner’s Death
The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission confirmed the deaths of Dr Muduva and his wife, describing the loss as an “untimely passing” and expressing condolences to their children, relatives, friends and loved ones.
Muduva was appointed as a commissioner of the ZHRC on December 19, 2024. The Commission said he made significant contributions to its work, particularly in connecting human rights with technology.
His professional background included expertise in cybersecurity, data science, artificial intelligence, digital transformation and technology risk. He also served as a lecturer at Midlands State University.
Police Investigation Underway
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Details of the alleged domestic dispute remain limited as authorities work to establish exactly what happened inside the couple’s home.
The tragedy comes as Zimbabwe continues to confront concerns surrounding domestic violence and the devastating consequences that can follow unresolved disputes within households.
A Career Spanning Technology and Human Rights
Before joining the ZHRC, Muduva developed a career spanning information security, artificial intelligence, big data analytics and governance. His professional and academic work positioned him at the intersection of emerging technology, public administration and human rights.
The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission has said his commitment to public service, human rights protection and administrative justice will be remembered with respect.
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