The government has confirmed a significant surge in malaria cases and deaths, prompting serious concerns in Zimbabwe. Recent statistics reveal a rapidly escalating health crisis, with cases nearly tripling compared to last year.
According to a press statement released on May 7, 2025, by the Ministry of Health and Child Care, cumulative malaria cases have skyrocketed by a staggering 180% compared to the same period last year.
“From Week 1 to Week 17, cumulative malaria cases have increased by 180%, rising from 21,309 in 2024 to 59,647 in 2025,” the statement revealed.
The rise in infections has tragically resulted in a parallel increase in malaria-related fatalities. The Ministry reports a staggering 218% increase in deaths, with the death toll climbing from 45 in 2024 to a heartbreaking 143 in 2025.
The Ministry attributes this alarming trend to a complex interplay of environmental and behavioral factors. “Increased rainfall, humidity, and temperatures have created ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes,” the statement explains. Furthermore, the Ministry notes that “more people are engaging in outdoor activities such as artisanal mining, farming, and cross-border trading, particularly during dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active.” These activities often take place in remote areas with limited access to healthcare, leading to delays in treatment and a subsequent rise in mortality.
The number of reported malaria outbreaks has also surged, jumping from just one in 2024 to a staggering 115 in 2025. Of these, only 23 have been successfully contained. Provinces with high levels of artisanal mining and agricultural activities are disproportionately affected. Mashonaland Central, Manicaland, and Mashonaland West account for a combined 82.8% of all cases and 72.9% of all deaths. Children under the age of five represent 14% of the total malaria cases, underscoring the vulnerability of this demographic.
The Ministry of Health and Child Care has implemented various measures to combat the outbreak, including the free distribution of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), larvicides, diagnostic kits, and treatment medicines. Community mobilization and awareness campaigns have also been intensified to promote early treatment and the use of mosquito prevention methods. While 1,615,000 ITNs are being distributed in high-risk districts, a shortfall of 600,000 nets exists due to funding cuts.
Despite these challenges, the Ministry maintains that “the country currently has adequate stocks of malaria medicines and diagnostic kits,” emphasizing that all suspected cases are being tested and treated appropriately. Efforts are also underway to collaborate with the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development to reach artisanal mining populations, who are often mobile and difficult to access.
Significant challenges persist, however. The Ministry acknowledges that “climate change continues to extend the mosquito breeding season and increase the vector population.” The rise in artisanal mining activities further exacerbates the problem by creating more breeding sites and increasing the population exposed to mosquitoes.
The Ministry urges the public to seek immediate testing and treatment at the onset of malaria symptoms. Preventative measures such as sleeping under insecticide-treated nets, wearing protective clothing, and using mosquito repellents are strongly recommended.
