Mbare residents battle years-long bed bug infestation

HARARE, Zimbabwe — After years of complaints from residents, the City of Harare has confirmed a bed bug infestation at Mbare’s Matererini and Matapi Flats and will begin a coordinated pest control effort starting Monday.

“We have confirmed the existence of bed bug (tsikidzi) infestation in Mbare, and the City of Harare will immediately take action through a comprehensive approach of spraying the areas affected,” said Stanley Gama, the city’s corporate communications manager, in a public notice.

Gama said the city’s pest control section has already been on the ground assessing the situation and mobilizing equipment and resources. Spraying will begin the morning of April 7, with officials urging residents to prepare and cooperate with health teams.

The city will also launch awareness campaigns to educate residents on how overcrowding contributes to such infestations and how to prevent reoccurrence through regular cleaning and sanitation.

“Spraying alone will not solve this problem,” Gama said. “Bed bugs hide in small crevices on beds, sofas, wardrobes, walls, etc., so regular physical cleaning is required where chemicals can’t reach.”

Volunteers will be required to help city teams reach as many affected areas as possible. The city emphasized the importance of community participation in tackling the infestation, which many residents say has plagued the area for years.

“We’ve been living with these bugs for too long,” said a Matapi resident who asked not to be named. “We hope this finally brings us some relief.”

Gama said more information will be shared in the coming days as the city continues its response.