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Malaria Cases Rise in Zimbabwe, 423 People Dead

Chipo Basira
27 Apr, 2026

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Malaria Cases Rise in Zimbabwe, 423 People Dead

Zimbabwe has recorded 154,000 malaria cases and 423 deaths in 2025, health officials said.

The Community Working Group on Health warned that the outbreak is getting worse. Climate change is blamed for spreading malaria to areas that used to have low risk.

Community Working Group on Health Executive Director Itai Rusike said heavy rains, floods, and higher temperatures have created more places for mosquitoes to breed. The malaria season is also lasting longer.

“The recent increase in malaria illness and deaths threatens to undo years of progress, especially in rural communities,” Rusike said.

Experts say climate change could cause over 550,000 more malaria deaths worldwide by 2050 due to extreme weather.

Mashonaland West Province is one of the worst hit areas. Officials reported 5,087 cases and 20 deaths there since January. New infections are rising fast, with 64 cases recorded in one day.

Health officials said insecticide-treated mosquito nets are not available in many affected districts, but orders have been placed.

Districts with high case numbers include Hurungwe, Sanyati, and Kariba. Children under five and pregnant women face the highest risk.

“Early diagnosis and fast treatment are key to stop deaths,” health officials said.

Experts said the health system is also facing problems. Indoor spraying is delayed, transport is limited, and mosquitoes are becoming resistant to some chemicals.

Rusike called for more support for village health workers.

He said they need training and rapid test kits to find and treat malaria quickly in communities.

The Community Working Group on Health wants the government to use more local money for malaria programs. It said taxes from sugar and airtime should be set aside to reduce dependence on donors.

Health authorities urged people to stay alert, seek treatment early, and use prevention methods as the malaria season continues.