The Mdantsane couple, who was arrested last year for the murder of their 5-year-old daughter was sentenced at the Townships Magistrates Court near East London on Thursday.
The 27-year-old Nosikhumbuzo Mabusela and her 31-year-old boyfriend Siphelo Melfin have been in custody since they were arrested at their Potsdam home in June last year.
Their arrest followed after the decomposed body of their daughter Kungawo Mabusela, was discovered buried in a shallow grave in a garden close to their home.
The offenders both pleaded guilty.
Before the deceased died, Melfin had assaulted her by using a belt, he was then assisted by Mabusela in wrapping the body with a blanket before they buried it.
During the court proceedings, the Magistrate emphasised that these offences were cruelty at its worst.
The deceased's stepfather Melfin, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for a count of murder and another 3 years for defeating the ends of justice.
Mabusela was sentenced to 3 years in prison for defeating the ends of justice.
