By Admore Mbonda in Kariba
As the new year unfolds, Kariba residents are grappling with a growing public health threat—an alarming surge in mosquito populations, fueled by nearby swamps.
This insect influx has become a major concern, particularly in the Nyamhunga and Mahombekombe areas, where locals are urgently calling for the return of mosquito spraying campaigns and greater action from local authorities.
The festive spirit of the holiday season has been overshadowed by both economic and health challenges.
While the local fishing industry, particularly kapenta fishermen, continues to struggle with poor catches, residents are far more worried about the rising risk of mosquito-borne diseases, such as malaria.
“These swamps are breeding grounds for disease, not just a nuisance,” said Monalisa Nhoko, a concerned Nyamhunga resident. “As a parent, I’m terrified of my children contracting malaria. We need action from the authorities before it gets worse.”
The frustration among residents is palpable, as many recall the days when the Ministry of Health and Kariba Municipality actively sprayed for mosquitoes and distributed mosquito nets to prevent the spread of malaria. However, those efforts have reportedly been halted, and the nets that were once meant for protection are now being misused for fishing and garden protection.
“It’s heartbreaking to see those nets being used for fishing instead of keeping our families safe,” said Tendai Machipisa from Mahombekombe. “We need those nets back and the spraying to resume.”
With malaria still a major public health concern in Zimbabwe—over 300,000 cases are reported annually—public health officials acknowledge the seriousness of the situation.
While the government has committed to malaria prevention measures, residents insist that action needs to be taken urgently.
“The fear is real, especially for families with young children,” said Gabriel Mazivofa, Public Relations Officer for Kariba Municipality. “We understand the concerns, and we are working on a solution, but we need the community’s cooperation too.”
However, Mazivofa noted that Kariba’s malaria burden is reportedly lower than other districts, leading the Ministry of Health to reduce Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) efforts in favor of distributing Long Lasting Insecticide Treated Nets (LLINs).
“Kariba is now in a pre-elimination stage for malaria, with fewer cases compared to other districts that still have a higher malaria burden,” he explained. “We’re focusing on distributing LLINs to continue preventing the spread.”
Despite the health department’s claims, many residents remain unconvinced and demand immediate action.
“We want to live without the constant fear of getting sick,” said Douglas Nyamadzawo, a local business owner.
“We are relying on our leaders to take action and protect us from this mosquito crisis.”
As Kariba residents continue to battle both the economic strain of a struggling fishing industry and the looming threat of malaria, they remain hopeful that 2025 will bring more than just rising mosquito numbers—but the urgent action they’ve been pleading for.
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