The City of Harare has confirmed a bedbug (tsikidzi) outbreak in the high-density suburb of Mbare, prompting an emergency pest control response set to begin on Monday, April 7, 2025.
Stanley Gama, the City’s Corporate Communications Manager, announced that pest control teams have been deployed to evaluate the infestation and gather the necessary resources. He urged residents to cooperate fully with the efforts.
“We have confirmed the presence of a bedbug infestation in Mbare, and the City of Harare will take immediate action through a comprehensive spraying initiative,” Gama stated.
The spraying will commence at Mbare’s Matererini and Matapi Flats, which are among the oldest and most overcrowded residential areas in the city. Gama highlighted that factors such as overcrowding, poor sanitation, and ineffective waste management have contributed to the pests’ resurgence.
“Residents in the affected areas should prepare to cooperate with our teams starting early in the morning,” he urged.
In addition to chemical spraying, the city will implement public awareness campaigns to educate residents about the causes and prevention of bedbug infestations in densely populated areas.
Gama stressed the importance of community involvement for effective outcomes.“Spraying alone will not resolve this issue. Bedbugs hide in small crevices on beds, sofas, wardrobes, walls, and more, necessitating regular physical cleaning in areas that chemicals cannot reach,” he explained
.The city is seeking volunteers from the community to assist pest control teams, aiming for broader coverage and improved results. Further updates will be provided as the operation progresses.
