By Catherine Murombedzi
HEALTH CORRESPONDENT
A perfect storm of environmental and behavioural factors has pushed Zimbabwe into a malaria crisis. The Ministry of Health and Child Care, (MoHCC) in a statement issued 9 May 2025 reports a staggering 180% surge in malaria cases. It reports of an 218% increase in deaths compared to the same period last year.
From Week 1 to Week 17 of 2025, cumulative malaria cases have skyrocketed from 21,309 in 2024 to 59,647 in 2025.
The provinces most affected are Mashonaland Central, Manicaland, and Mashonaland West, where artisanal mining and agricultural activities are rampant.
The Alarming Statistics:
● 59,647 malaria cases reported in 2025, up from 21,309 in 2024
● 143 malaria-related deaths in 2025, up from 45 in 2024
● 115 reported malaria outbreaks in 2025, with only 23 brought under control
● 14% of total malaria cases are children under five years.
The Ministry of Health and Child Care has taken steps to address the outbreak, including free distribution of Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs), larvicides, diagnostic kits, and treatment medicines. Provincial and district health teams have intensified community mobilisation and awareness campaigns.
A total of 1,615,000 ITNs are being distributed in 14 high-risk districts.
The Challenges Ahead:
Climate change continues to pose a significant threat, expanding the mosquito breeding season and increasing vector populations. This environmental factor, combined with artisanal mining activities, has created an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes, exposing populations to peak biting hours. Furthermore, many of these communities remain difficult to reach and are hesitant to engage with health authorities, making it challenging for the Ministry to effectively control the outbreak.
A Call to Action:
The MoHCC urges citizens to take preventive measures to protect themselves from malaria. This includes sleeping under Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs) every day, wearing protective clothing and using mosquito repellents when outdoors, and seeking prompt treatment at the onset of symptoms. By working together, Zimbabwe can overcome this malaria outbreak and promote public health.
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