A heartbroken woman from Arusha, Tanzania, has spoken out about falling into depression after being abandoned by the man she supported through university, only for him to leave her after securing a lucrative job in the banking sector.
Getrude Yohana says she met Ramadhani in 2009 while he was still a high school student. The two started dating and moved in together in 2011 despite their limited income. Getrude was a casual labourer while Ramadhani worked as a security guard. When he expressed a desire to pursue university education, she stepped in to support him financially.
“I took loans and worked multiple jobs to make sure he completed his degree. I gave him money to pay fees, buy books, and take care of our home,” she recalled. In total, she estimates spending TZS 3.5 million (KSh 169,113) on his university education.
After graduating, Ramadhani landed a job at a local bank in 2013. At first, life improved for the young family, but Getrude claims his behaviour changed drastically. He began belittling her, mocking her for being a class-seven dropout and even for her skin tone.
“He told me he was tired of living with someone like me and wanted a woman who matched his new status,” she said.
Eventually, Ramadhani kicked Getrude and their two children out of their home. Despite a court ruling directing him to provide child support, Getrude claims he has failed to do so and has gone as far as accusing her of stealing household items. She has since reported him to the children’s office, but he allegedly threatened her for pursuing legal support.
Getrude, now battling depression, says she has no intention of reconciling with him. Her only plea is for him to support his children.
Ramadhani has denied all accusations, stating that Getrude never paid his fees and has failed to provide proof of any financial support.
Getrude is now appealing to authorities to intervene for the sake of her children’s future
