CCTV images had been released, capturing the last sighting of Shaun Nyemba, known affectionately as Sunflower, before her sudden disappearance.
The transwoman was last seen on Friday, June 29th.
A close friend took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share the distressing news, posting: “Guys, Sunflower is missing💔💔💔. Please, if anyone has heard from her recently, get in touch 🙏🏽🙏🏽❤️.
She traveled from Bulawayo on Friday and arrived in Harare in the afternoon. She had booked an Airbnb, but they said she never checked in. They are keeping us updated. The last time messages went through on her phone was at 8 P.M. on Friday. We have checked at Central ZRP and Parirenyatwa. Please let us know if you have any information or advice on how best to proceed. Sunflower is a transwoman, and we are asking our community to assist in any way you can to find her.”
Sunflower’s journey from Bulawayo to Harare was supposed to be a routine trip, with plans to stay at an Airbnb upon her arrival. Despite her meticulous arrangements, she never checked in at her accommodation, and since then, her whereabouts remained unknown.
The last confirmed communication was at 8 P.M. on Friday, when her phone still received messages. Following this, all attempts to contact her had failed, leaving her friends and family increasingly worried.
Her friends immediately sprang into action, visiting the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) at Central Police Station and checking medical facilities like Parirenyatwa Hospital for any leads.
Their concern was amplified by the potential risks faced by trans individuals, particularly in environments where they might encounter prejudice or misunderstanding.
The online plea struck a chord within the community, prompting widespread sharing and support.
The post on X gained significant traction, with users offering suggestions on further steps and encouraging vigilance.
Some recommended reaching out to local LGBTQ+ organizations for help, while others stressed the importance of reporting any relevant information.
Sunflower’s friends and family remained hopeful that she would be found safe and urged anyone with information to come forward.
They emphasised the crucial role of community support and solidarity during such critical times, asking everyone to keep Sunflower in their thoughts and prayers.
Fortunately, the story took a positive turn. Sunflower was recently found safe and sound. It turned out that she had decided to attend an impromptu sleepover with some friends and had neglected to inform anyone of her plans.
She was deeply apologetic for the worry she caused and grateful for the overwhelming support from her community.
