Imagine trying to get a good night’s sleep, only to be constantly bitten and itching through the night.
That’s the reality for residents in the Mbare flats—a densely populated neighborhood in Harare, Zimbabwe—who are dealing with a full-blown bed bug invasion.
The infestation has gotten so serious that local authorities have officially declared it a public health emergency, launching a city-wide effort to combat the tiny but troublesome pests.
City of Harare Launches Emergency Response Plan
To get ahead of the issue, Harare City Council has activated its Incident Management System and put together a special team, led by an “incident manager,” to oversee the response.
Their main job?
Eradicate bed bugs—locally known as tsikidzi—from thousands of homes in the area.
As of April 7, city workers have been going door-to-door, fumigating flats in a massive campaign to bring relief to residents.
With more than 5,400 rooms in need of treatment, the task is no small feat.
In a public statement, the council emphasized just how big the challenge is, but assured residents that the wheels are in motion and help is on the way.
Mbare: Ground Zero for the Bed Bug Outbreak
So far, officials say they’ve fumigated around 64% of the rooms in the Mbare flats—almost two-thirds.
That’s solid progress, but they’re not letting their guard down.
While Mbare is the worst-hit, reports of bed bug activity have been popping up in other parts of Harare.
The city is now sending out inspection teams to those areas, just to be safe and prevent a wider outbreak.
Beyond Sprays: Public Awareness and Prevention
The battle isn’t just about spraying chemicals.
Harare authorities are also ramping up public education efforts, teaching people about household hygiene and how to avoid bringing bed bugs into their homes.
One suspected culprit?
Second-hand clothes, which some believe are contributing to the spread.
Officials are advising residents to be careful about what they bring into their homes—and to cooperate fully with fumigation crews by letting them in to do their job.
Community Involvement Is Key
The success of this bed bug fight depends heavily on residents working with the city.
Authorities are urging everyone to open their doors and allow the fumigation teams in—because without access to all units, the pests could simply keep moving from flat to flat.
Have you ever had to deal with bed bugs?
If so, you know how frustrating and uncomfortable it can be.
Harare’s residents are hoping this aggressive response brings lasting relief.