By Dumisani Ndlovu
In the serene village of Mdubiwa, Ward 7, Lower Gweru, a heroic story emerged on the morning of Monday, October 26, 2024, when a devastating lightning strike hit a humble hut, threatening innocent lives.
Amidst the chaos, six-year-old Mercy Gwebu displayed remarkable bravery that outshone the darkest storm.
The girl’s grandmother, Siphiwe Sibanda, a local clinic worker, had left the children alone in the hut when the lightning struck.
While many adults might have panicked, young Mercy acted swiftly and decisively.
“I had left them when I went to work. I left three children—a six-year-old, a two-year-old, and a six-month-old—one of whom has a disability. I instructed them to seek refuge in the house when it rains,” she explained.
When Mercy realized the hut had caught fire, she stormed in without hesitation to rescue her trapped siblings.
“I am grateful for my granddaughter’s courage. She has shown us that even in the darkest moments, hope and heroism can shine through,” Gogo Sibanda expressed.
As flames spread rapidly, fueled by the thatched roof and wooden structure, Mercy skillfully navigated the perilous environment, guiding her siblings to safety. Local councillor Bhekimpilo Sibanda expressed his admiration for the young girl’s extraordinary actions. “It’s unbelievable. When the villagers arrived, they found the two younger girls shaken but alive, thanks to their sister’s quick thinking. The disabled child, who required special care, was especially vulnerable, but the six-year-old ensured her safety above all,” Councillor Sibanda reported, paying tribute to Mercy’s bravery.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as miraculous. “We arrived to find the hut engulfed in flames. Initially, we thought the kids were trapped inside, but that little girl had already rescued her siblings. It was incredible,” shared a neighbor who preferred to remain anonymous.
The villagers, overwhelmed with gratitude, praised Mercy’s selfless act. “She did what many adults couldn’t do. Her bravery saved two precious lives,” another villager, Mandlela, remarked.
As news of the rescue spread, the community banded together, offering support and assistance to the family. Although shaken by the ordeal, Mercy’s parents brimmed with pride. This incident serves as a powerful reminder that true courage knows no age. The actions of this six-year-old girl will forever resonate in the hearts of Mdubiwa Village, inspiring others to emulate her bravery.
