“We Can’t Sleep At All”: Residents Cry for Help as Bedbug Outbreak Spreads to Bulawayo
What started as a bedbug outbreak in Harare has now crept into Bulawayo, sparking fear and frustration among residents of Mpopoma’s Ward 9.
The hardest-hit areas include Block 46 and the flats behind Patapata Beer Garden, where residents say they are living in misery.
Also Read: Mutare Declares War On Bedbugs As Global Plague Affects Zimbabwe
“We Haven’t Slept in Weeks” — Residents Speak Out
Speaking to The Chronicle, a resident from Block 46 said the infestation has made life unbearable for her and her family.
“These bugs have turned our lives into a nightmare. We haven’t had a peaceful night in weeks. They bite my kids too. We’ve tried everything. Nothing works,” said a woman from Block 46.
Miss Siphiwe Moyo, another affected resident, shared the emotional toll.
“It’s hard to talk about,” she said. “People will laugh at you. But we are suffering. We are tired. We can’t sleep at all. These bugs are winning.”
Also Read: City of Harare Speaks Out on Bed Bug Outbreak in Mbare
US$47 Fumigation Fee Too High for Many
Despite their pleas, residents say the Bulawayo City Council has offered no relief unless households pay US$47 for fumigation—an amount many cannot afford.
“That amount is simply out of reach for most of our elderly residents. The infestation is real. Block 46 and the flats near Patapata are the worst-hit. People are begging for help,” said Ward 9 Residents’ Chairperson Mr Stanslous Dube.
Ward Secretary for Environment Mr Dumisani Moyo echoed the concerns:
“This problem is spreading, and many are too ashamed to report it. We’re pleading with the government for intervention.”
Councillor Promises Visit, Experts Warn of Rapid Spread
Ward Councillor Donaldson Mabutho has promised to visit the affected areas to assess the situation. Meanwhile, health officials are warning that if the problem isn’t addressed swiftly, Mpopoma’s outbreak could soon engulf other parts of the city.
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The post “We Can’t Sleep At All”: Residents Cry for Help as Bedbug Outbreak Spreads to Bulawayo appeared first on iHarare News.
