MDF Soldier Asks Malawians to Forgive Him for Impregnating Teenager

A 36-year-old Malawi Defence Force soldier has asked Malawians to forgive him after being convicted of having sexual intercourse with a 15-year-old girl and impregnating her.

Kamuzu Barracks-based soldier Diof Simaone made the plea on Friday when he appeared before the Lilongwe Senior Resident Magistrate’s Court.

Simaone was found guilty of having sexual intercourse with the minor four times between April and August 2025.

Central West Region Police prosecutor Sub Inspector Thandizo Chingaru told the court that Simaone had sexual intercourse with the girl three times at a guest house in Area 44 and once at his house.

The court heard that Simaone later informed the girl’s mother that he had impregnated her and promised to support the victim.

However, Chingaru said Simaone failed to provide the promised support until the girl gave birth to a baby boy in January 2026.

The victim’s mother, who works as a civilian cleaner at Kamuzu Barracks, later reported the matter to Area 23 Police Unit, which arrested Simaone.

During the trial, Simaone pleaded not guilty, prompting the State to parade four witnesses to prove the case beyond reasonable doubt.

The court subsequently found him guilty as charged.

In mitigation, Simaone asked the court not to send him to prison, arguing that imprisonment would make it difficult for him to support the victim and her baby.

He also asked the victim, her mother, the court and Malawians to forgive him, saying what he did was wrong.

Prosecutor Chingaru asked the court to impose the harshest sentence, arguing that Simaone, as a military officer, was expected to protect the girl rather than abuse her.

Senior Resident Magistrate Bracious Kondowe convicted Simaone and has reserved sentencing for next Tuesday.

Simaone comes from Nakoka Village under Traditional Authority Mwambo in Zomba District.