By Staff Reporter
The City of Harare has begun a bed bug spraying program to address problems affecting residents in Mbare despite a successful control programme implemented last year.
Recent assessments have confirmed the presence of bed bugs in several apartments including Nenyere, Matererini, Matapi, Shawasha, and Mbare flats, and in the surrounding areas.
This re-emergence has been attributed to imported second hand clothes (mabhero).
The City Health Department is urgently responding through a targeted chemical application programme in all affected blocks and nearby areas from the 19th of February 2026. The operation aims to protect public health and prevent further spread.
Residents are urged to cooperate fully with spraying teams by:
* Opening rooms and allowing access to all living spaces
* Removing clutter, old furniture, cardboard boxes, and unnecessary belongings
* Pulling beds, wardrobes, and furniture away from walls before spraying
* Washing bedding and clothing before the spraying exercise
* Ensuring children are kept away during spraying
Failure to grant access to spraying teams increases the risk of continued infestation and re-infestation of neighbouring rooms and blocks. As such, appropriate action will be taken on non-compliant residents, without any further warning, to ensure successful control of bed bugs.
How Residents Can Help Control Bed Bugs
Residents are encouraged to take the following preventive measures:
* Regularly wash bedding, blankets, and clothing in hot water, dry in sunlight, and iron
* Avoid buying or bringing second-hand clothes, mattresses,and furniture without proper inspection
* Reduce overcrowding and clutter in rooms
* Regularly clean sleeping areas, mattresses, and furniture seams
* Seal cracks in walls, floors, and furniture where bed bugs may hide
* Immediately report sightings of bed bugs to local health officials
The City of Harare remains committed to safeguarding the health and well-being of all residents. Continued community cooperation is essential for the success of this programme.
For further information, residents are encouraged to contact their nearest City Health Office.
