Zimbabwe Records 154,000 Malaria Cases And 423 Deaths
Zimbabwe is facing a deepening health emergency after 423 people died and 154,000 malaria cases were recorded, as climate change is blamed for fuelling the rapid spread of the disease into new areas.
Health advocates warn the situation could worsen, with outbreaks intensifying in provinces such as Mashonaland West and critical shortages of mosquito nets undermining prevention efforts.
Climate Change Driving Spread Into New Areas
According to ZiFM Stereo News, the Community Working Group on Health (CWGH) confirmed that Zimbabwe recorded 154,000 malaria cases and 423 deaths in 2025, raising alarm among public health experts.
CWGH Executive Director Itai Rusike said environmental changes are playing a major role in the resurgence.
“The resurgence of malaria is closely linked to climate-related changes and health system challenges. Erratic rainfall patterns, rising temperatures, and flooding have expanded mosquito breeding sites and extended transmission seasons, even into areas previously considered low-risk,” said Rusike.
He warned that the trend threatens to undo years of progress in controlling the disease.
“The recent increase in malaria-related illness and deaths threatens to reverse progress made over the years, particularly in vulnerable rural communities,” he added.
Globally, experts project that climate change could contribute to more than 550,000 additional malaria deaths by 2050, largely driven by extreme weather disruptions.
Mashonaland West Outbreak And Net Shortages
The national crisis is reflected in Mashonaland West, where a provincial report confirmed 5,087 malaria cases and 20 deaths since the beginning of the year.
Health officials said infections are rising بسرعة (quickly), with 64 new cases recorded within 24 hours.
Authorities also raised concern over the unavailability of insecticide-treated mosquito nets across affected districts.
“Insecticide-treated nets are currently out of stock across targeted districts, although orders have been placed,” officials said.
Districts such as Hurungwe, Sanyati and Kariba have recorded some of the highest case numbers, while children under five and pregnant women remain the most vulnerable.
“Early diagnosis and prompt treatment remain critical to prevent fatalities,” health officials stressed.
Health System Gaps Expose Communities
Experts say the crisis is being worsened by challenges within the health system, including delays in indoor residual spraying, logistical constraints and increasing insecticide resistance.
Rusike emphasised the need to strengthen community-based responses.
“Ensuring village health workers are adequately supported, trained, and supplied with Rapid Diagnostic Tests will enhance early diagnosis and treatment at the community level, saving lives,” he said.
The CWGH has also called for increased domestic funding for malaria programmes, urging authorities to ring-fence resources such as the sugar tax and airtime levy to reduce dependence on donors.
The warning comes as the world marked World Malaria Day under the theme “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can, Now We Must,” highlighting the urgency of sustained action.
Health authorities continue to urge communities to remain vigilant, seek treatment early and adopt preventive measures as the malaria season persists.
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