Harare to evict Mbare flats occupants over failure to cooperate with ‘tsikidzi’ fumigators
By Staff Writer
OCCUPANTS of Mbare flats are reportedly refusing to cooperate with City of Harare’s fumigators in a development likely to complicate the eradication of the scourge.
In a statement , the City of Harare expressed grave disappointment over the developments and implored the occupants to exercise responsibility.
“We have noted with concern reports that some occupiers of Mbare flats are refusing to open their doors to City Health workers who want to fumigate their premises against bedbugs (tsikidzi).We encourage the residents to allow health workers immediate access to the premises or risk enforcement using police,” said the City.
A threat to cancel the current leases since the apartments are owned by the City of Harare was issued .
“Residents’ health is of utmost importance and the City of Harare will use every available means to gain access for fumigation purposes to protect every resident in Harare,” the statement added.
The City of Harare launched a full-scale emergency response to combat a severe bed bug infestation in Mbare flats. The local authority activated its Incident Management System (IMS), appointed an incident manager, and developed an action plan to address the public health nuisance.
The council began the first of three planned fumigation cycles on April 7, targeting 5,450 rooms, with 64% completed by the latest update. The outbreak was confined to Mbare, however, teams were sent to investigate reports from other suburbs. Council said bed bugs, although not known to transmit diseases, pose a serious nuisance and affect the well-being of residents.
Residents were urged to support the initiative by opening their homes to fumigation teams and taking preventive measures, such as exposing bedding to sunlight and avoiding untreated second-hand items.
