Fanuel Chinowaita
Mutare, Zimbabwe – May 3, 2025
The City of Mutare has dismissed social media claims of a bedbug outbreak at Bako Market in Sakubva, clarifying that ongoing fumigation exercises in the city are precautionary and part of a broader national response to confirmed infestations in other regions.
A message circulating widely on social media had alleged the presence of bedbugs—locally known as tsikidzi—in Sakubva high-density suburb, prompting concerns among informal traders and residents. The message claimed that Mutare’s health department, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, had discovered the insects and planned to fumigate Bako Market and surrounding storage facilities.
In response, City of Mutare issued a public notice refuting claims of an outbreak at the market, stating:
“There are no confirmed cases of bedbugs in the Bako Flea Market. The fumigation being carried out is a preventive measure to ensure that our residents are safe from a potential outbreak.”
Manicaland Informal Traders Association spokesperson Bright Mpofu also dismissed the reports, saying, “There is absolutely no evidence of bed bugs or tsikidzi at Bako Market. As a preventative measure and also being proactive, the City of Mutare is set to spray all potential bedbug breeding areas.”
City officials emphasized that while there is no current outbreak in Mutare, routine fumigation and awareness campaigns have been intensified citywide to curb any possible spread, following confirmed outbreaks in other parts of the country.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, check for signs of infestation, and cooperate with council-led fumigation exercises. For suspected cases or further inquiries, the public is urged to contact the City of Mutare or report to the nearest clinic.