By Michael Gwarisa
The City of Harare has confirmed an outbreak of bedbugs (tsikidzi) in the high-density suburb of Mbare, prompting authorities to launch an emergency pest control response starting Monday, 7 April 2025.
Stanley Gama, the City’s Corporate Communications Manager, said the pest control teams have already been deployed to assess the extent of the infestation and mobilize necessary resources. He urged residents to fully cooperate with the exercise.
We have confirmed the existence of a bedbug (tsikidzi) infestation in Mbare, and the City of Harare will immediately take action through a comprehensive approach of spraying the areas affected,” Gama said in a statement.
The spraying operation will begin at Mbare’s Matererini and Matapi Flats, some of the oldest and most overcrowded residential blocks in the city. Gama noted that overcrowding, poor sanitation, and inadequate waste management are key contributors to the resurgence of the pests.
“Residents in the areas mentioned should prepare and cooperate with our teams starting early morning,” he added.
In addition to chemical spraying, the city will carry out public awareness campaigns focusing on the causes and prevention of bedbug infestations in densely populated communities. Gama emphasized the importance of community involvement for effective results.
“Spraying alone will not solve this problem. Bed bugs hide in small crevices on beds, sofas, wardrobes, walls, etc., thus regular physical cleaning is required where chemicals can’t reach,” he said.
The city is calling for volunteers from the community to assist pest control teams for wider coverage and better results. More information will be shared as the operation unfolds.
