MASHONALAND West is among the top three provinces in Zimbabwe most affected by a recent malaria surge, with 22 202 cases and 66 deaths reported between January and June 2025, a latest report shows.
The province's rural settings, artisanal mining zones and limited healthcare access have made it particularly vulnerable to the disease, while the cases have been exacerbated by the rainy season, which creates ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes.
The situation is further complicated by outdoor economic activities such as artisanal mining, fishing, tobacco curing and market gardening, which often involve travelling to neighbouring countries in the malaria-prone southern Africa region.
According to the Zimbabwe Malaria 2025: DREF Operation (MDRZW025), the outbreak has resulted in increased morbidity and mortality, with 85 confirmed deaths reported as of April 26 this year.
“The surge in malaria cases has placed additional pressure on healthcare facilities, particularly in rural areas where resources are limited,” the report read.
“Clinics and hospitals have faced increased patient loads, leading to potential shortages in medical supplies and staff fatigue.”
The focus on managing the malaria outbreak has diverted attention and resources from other essential health services, such as maternal and child health programmes, immunisation and management of chronic diseases.
The report said the outbreak had secondary effects, including absenteeism from work among adults and from school among children, affecting their academic performance and long-term educational outcomes.
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“The outbreak has also caused anxiety and stress among community members, particularly in areas with high infection rates. Fear of contracting the disease and concerns about the unavailability of treatment have impacted mental well-being,” it said.
According to the report, Mashonaland West province is also facing a cholera outbreak, which started on November 4, 2024, in Kariba district.
This double health burden has further strained the province's healthcare resources, making it even more crucial for residents to take preventive measures.
