The City of Harare has confirmed a bedbug infestation (locally known as tsikidzi) in the high-density area of Mbare, prompting immediate pest control action to address the problem.
Stanley Gama, Harare City’s Corporate Communications Manager, stated that pest control teams have already been dispatched to assess the situation and begin mobilizing resources for the response.
“We’ve confirmed the presence of bedbugs in Mbare, and the City of Harare is taking swift action by implementing a thorough spraying operation in the affected areas,” Gama said in a statement.
The initial focus will be on the Matererini and Matapi Flats in Mbare, which are among the oldest and most densely populated residential areas in the city. Gama pointed out that factors such as overcrowding, poor sanitation, and insufficient waste management are contributing to the resurgence of the pests.
“Residents in these areas are urged to prepare and cooperate with the pest control teams starting early in the morning,” he added.
In addition to the spraying efforts, the city will run public awareness campaigns aimed at educating residents about the causes of bedbug infestations and how to prevent them, particularly in crowded communities.
Gama emphasized that community involvement is critical for the success of the operation. “Spraying alone won’t eliminate the problem, as bedbugs tend to hide in small crevices on beds, sofas, wardrobes, and walls. Regular physical cleaning is necessary in areas where chemicals cannot reach,” he explained.
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The city is also calling for community volunteers to assist pest control teams, ensuring more comprehensive coverage and better outcomes. Further updates will be provided as the operation progresses.
Councillor Simbarashe Chanachimwe shared that the Ministry of Health has provided resources to support the spraying of all residential and business areas in Mbare.
“We met with officials from the Ministry of Health, the City of Harare, and other stakeholders to discuss the situation,” Cllr Chanachimwe said. “Many families have been suffering from sleepless nights and physical scars due to these bedbugs.”
He explained that the issue has been ongoing since 2020, with some residents attempting to resolve it by burning their furniture and blankets, but the problem persisted.
The spraying operation will cover all homes, flats, and businesses in Mbare, and Cllr Chanachimwe urged residents to cooperate by allowing health officials to spray their properties.
Some residents have raised concerns that the influx of second-hand clothing bales may be contributing to the bedbug problem.
“We suspect that these second-hand clothing bales stored in Mbare homes and flats are a major factor,” said one local. “Spraying alone won’t solve the issue if nothing is done to address the source of the infestation.”
Additionally, uncollected garbage and old furniture were also identified as contributing factors to the breeding of bedbugs.
The city’s ongoing efforts aim to reduce the spread of the pests while educating the public on preventive measures to avoid further outbreaks.
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