Zimbabwe faces a resurgence of malaria despite recent progress. The Health and Child Care ministry reports 476 new cases and two deaths this week. Among the cases, 79 involved children under five. Mashonaland Central recorded the highest number, with 205 cases, followed by Manicaland with 118.
Cumulative figures for malaria in Zimbabwe now stand at 31,757 cases and 57 deaths. These numbers highlight the urgent need for intensified efforts. On World Malaria Day, the United Zimbabwe Alliance (UZA) stressed the importance of equitable access to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment services nationwide.
Between 2020 and 2022, Zimbabwe saw a 68% decline in malaria cases and a 55% reduction in deaths. These achievements were due to government initiatives, health organizations, and community efforts. Key measures included distributing insecticide-treated bed nets, indoor residual spraying, and effective anti-malarial medicines.
With malaria cases rising again, it’s crucial to ensure vulnerable populations receive necessary care. This includes increasing access to healthcare services, particularly in rural areas and urban slums. Targeted interventions like bed nets and indoor spraying must reach high-risk populations.
The government needs to intensify community engagement and mobilization. Awareness campaigns and community-based initiatives in malaria-prone areas are essential. Statistics from early May show over 20,000 malaria cases and 44 deaths, indicating the severity of the situation.
Mashonaland Central, contributing 50.9% of cases and 28.2% of deaths, is the worst affected province. The government should allocate more resources to this region to reduce cases and deaths. Strengthening health systems, upgrading infrastructure, and training healthcare workers are crucial steps.
Improving access to life-saving interventions and addressing social determinants of malaria, such as poverty, lack of education, and poor sanitation, are vital. Marginalized communities must have a voice in efforts to control the disease.
Achieving equity in access to malaria prevention, diagnosis, and treatment services is essential. As UZA emphasized, this aligns with sections 29 and 76 of Zimbabwe’s Constitution.
The resurgence of malaria in Zimbabwe requires urgent action. Increased healthcare access, targeted interventions, and community engagement are critical. By addressing these challenges, Zimbabwe can continue its progress in the fight against malaria.
Source: Newsday
