Harare Flats Overrun by Tsikidzi Nightmares

Bed bugs have spread across many Harare neighborhoods, starting in Mbare flats before reaching Mabvuku, Kuwadzana, Budiriro, and other areas. The biting insects cause skin irritation and health worries among local families. City officials began fumigating Mbare flats, but the pests kept moving to nearby communities. People blame the spread on regular contact between residents of different suburbs.

One person told NewsDay they believe their cousins from Mbare brought the bugs during an overnight stay. Their children scratch all night despite washing bedding and using insect sprays. Harare mayor Jacob Mafume said detached houses are less spread out than apartment buildings. He suggested ironing clothes helps prevent infestation and linked the problem to second-hand clothing markets.

The city plans multiple rounds of fumigation over several weeks. Some homes missed treatment because residents were away during the initial spraying. Mafume expressed confidence that they would succeed after completing three rounds of treatment. Residents want faster action as more households report problems that disrupt daily life. People worry about long-term health effects and whether the city can handle widespread pest issues effectively.