Harare City (COH) has announced that recent reports of the invasion of bedbugs (Tsikidzi) spreading across suburban areas such as Mabubuku, Glenview and Budirillo are awaiting investigation.
Newzimbabwe.com last visited Mbare on April 7th. COH and other agencies provided fu steam chemicals to residents of Mbare to spray to contain the outbreak.
In a statement, COH said it had deployed its team to investigate claims on social media that bedbugs are spreading across various suburbs of Harare.
“After the recent bedbug invasion at Mbare Flats, the city council has been revitalizing its case management system to effectively deal with bedbugs.
“This includes the appointment of a team to lead the fight against bed bugs. So far, our team has been dispatched to assess other areas reported on social media as having bed bugs, but is limited to Mbale.
“An incident manager has been appointed and an incident action plan has been created. The operations section is led by Environmental Health Manager Manyara…” reads the statement.
Local governments said cooperation is open to combat bloody insects.
So far, COH has reported that over 60% of the target chambers have already become fu steaming.
“Bed bugs: There are no human diseases caused by bed bugs, but they can be constantly annoying to the community. They are difficult but not impossible to control.
“Current management efforts, pest management in Mbare Flats (spreading and mass education of affected community members and their settings). Harare City Council launched a three-round Fumigation on April 7, 2025, with 64% of Mbare Flats and 5,450 rooms earning Fumigated.
“A call was made to partners and stakeholders, and contacted the city health department to facilitate mobilization and matching of response resources.
“Sustainability: The Council is in the process of urgently procuring services from private fu steam companies, quickly reaching the ground and maintaining its business,” reads the statement.
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The council provided residents with precautions to control and prevent future intrusions.
The Council has spread important messages for bed bug prevention and control. These tips include urging residents to keep clean, reduce room clutter and expose household items that can put bugs in sunlight throughout the afternoon.
“Regularly clean/vacuum floors, bed frames, surrounding areas, frequently and frequently, especially with cracks and gaps. If there is evidence of invasion, apply the recommended pesticides.
“Proper washing practices. Wash and dry all bed linens, including sheets, pillowcases, blankets and mattress protectors, and dry them in hot water (at least 50°C).
“Regularly change the bedding and wash bed bugs to prevent bed bugs from entering. Avoid second hand items and treat them. Avoid second hand clothing and fu steam before use to prevent bed bugs from being introduced into the living space.
“Community engagement and collaboration. We are participating in the COH-organised and community-driven fu-steam initiative. We are working together to ensure comprehensive coverage and prevent bedbug spread between units. Make sure all rooms have access to the room.”
