Mutare Declares War On Bedbugs As Global Plague Affects Zimbabwe

City of Mutare launches emergency bedbug spraying campaign

The City of Mutare has launched an emergency bedbug spraying campaign amid fears that the global bedbug crisis may be creeping into Zimbabwe.

“We are conducting routine spraying of potential bedbug breeding areas,” said a statement issued by the City on 3 May 2025.

“Due to confirmed outbreak of bedbugs in the country, we have also scaled up awareness campaigns to educate our residents on how to protect themselves in the event of an outbreak.”

Mutare on alert

Although no confirmed cases have been reported at the popular Bako Flea Market, officials say they are not taking any chances.

“The fumigation being carried out is a preventive measure,” reads the statement.
“Residents will be kept updated of the situation as we continue with our investigations and awareness efforts.”

Mr Gowera, the city’s contact point for suspected infestations, is encouraging residents to get in touch.

“Let us work together to prevent bedbug infestations,” he said.

Residents have been urged to inspect second-hand clothes and furniture, reduce clutter, and report any sightings immediately.

From Paris to Mbare

Zimbabwe is not alone. Countries across the world have reported rising cases of bedbug infestations.

In France, the problem grew so severe in 2023 that it caused political uproar ahead of the Paris Olympics. The French national health body, ANSES, revealed that over 11 percent of homes had been affected between 2017 and 2022. Footage of bedbugs crawling on train seats and cinema chairs went viral on social media, leading to public outcry.

In the United Kingdom, bedbug reports jumped by nearly 65% in 2023, with pest control companies like Rentokil saying the spike was unprecedented. London, Birmingham, and Manchester were among the worst-hit cities.

In the United States, New York City and Chicago remain major hotspots. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has repeatedly issued advisories. Bedbugs have been found in schools, public transport, and even office buildings.

In South Korea, bedbug sightings prompted the government to launch a nationwide eradication drive. Over 30 pest control firms were contracted to fumigate public spaces after social media clips of infestations caused panic in late 2023.

“This is no longer just a nuisance,” said South Korea’s Health Minister at the time. “It’s a public health and mental health concern.”

Other countries affected include Germany, India, Australia, and Canada, where urban areas with high travel rates have reported a steady increase in infestations.

Why it’s spreading

Experts say bedbugs are thriving for several reasons.

“Rapid urbanisation, overcrowding, and increased international travel have made it easier for bedbugs to spread,” reports The Herald.

“They hitchhike on luggage, clothing, and furniture. They are hard to detect and even harder to eliminate.”

In Mbare, Harare, confirmed outbreaks at Matererini and Matapi Flats prompted immediate action from the City of Harare. Mayor Jacob Mafume said the city had launched a scheduled pest control programme.

“This is not going to be a once-off job,” he said.

Public health officials warn that no one is safe. Bedbugs can cause anxiety, sleeplessness, and skin irritation. They are not known to spread disease but can have severe psychological impacts.

Mutare officials are urging residents to remain calm but alert. Fumigation will continue across the city, especially in densely populated and high-risk areas.