Hazel Tizora
HARARE: Zimbabwe is grappling with a severe malaria outbreak, marking a dramatic surge in cases and fatalities compared to the previous year.
The Ministry of Health and Child Care reports a staggering 180% increase in malaria cases, rising from 21,309 in 2024 to 59,647 in 2025, with malaria-related deaths increasing by a similarly alarming 218%.
This unprecedented rise is attributed to a confluence of environmental factors, including increased rainfall and temperatures ideal for mosquito breeding, and behavioral factors such as increased outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours.
Contributing Factors and Geographic Impact
The increase in outdoor activities, particularly artisanal mining, farming, and cross-border trading, exposes individuals to higher risks of mosquito bites, especially in remote areas with limited access to healthcare.
This lack of access contributes to delays in treatment and increased fatalities.
The number of reported malaria outbreaks has skyrocketed from one in 2024 to 115 in 2025, with the majority concentrated in provinces with high levels of mining and agricultural activity.
Mashonaland Central, Manicaland, and Mashonaland West are the hardest hit, accounting for a combined 82.8% of all cases and 72.9% of all deaths.
Children under five years old represent 14% of total cases, highlighting the vulnerability of this age group.
Government Response and Challenges
The Ministry of Health and Child Care has implemented several measures to combat the outbreak, including the free distribution of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), larvicides, diagnostic kits, and treatment medications.
Community mobilization and awareness campaigns are underway to promote early treatment and preventative measures.
Government however says while 1,615,000 ITNs are being distributed in high-risk districts, a shortfall of 600,000 nets exists due to reduced funding from the United States Government.
Government wrote in a statement, “We are committed to bridging this gap through increased domestic financing”.
“Despite challenges in supply, larvicides are being applied to breeding sites, and adequate stocks of malaria medicines and diagnostic kits are available,” they further wrote.
All suspected cases are tested and treated accordingly.
Government also says collaboration with the Ministry of Mines is underway to address the issue in mining areas.
