Zimbabwe Records 423 Malaria Deaths as Climate Change Fuels Surge to 154,000 Cases

Zimbabwe is facing a worsening public health crisis after 423 malaria-related deaths and more than 154,000 infections were recorded in 2025, with experts warning that climate change is accelerating the spread of the disease into previously low-risk areas. Health advocates say the surge, confirmed by the Community Working Group on Health (CWGH), threatens to reverse years of progress in malaria control, particularly in vulnerable rural communities.

CWGH Executive Director Itai Rusike said environmental shifts are driving the resurgence of malaria across Zimbabwe.

“The resurgence of malaria is closely linked to climate-related changes and health system challenges,” Rusike said. “Erratic rainfall patterns, rising temperatures and flooding have expanded mosquito breeding sites and extended transmission seasons, even into areas previously considered low-risk.”

Experts warn that such trends are not unique to Zimbabwe. Global projections indicate climate change could contribute to more than 550,000 additional malaria deaths by 2050, largely due to extreme weather patterns altering disease transmission.

The national crisis is particularly evident in Mashonaland West, where authorities have recorded 5,087 malaria cases and 20 deaths since the start of the year. Districts such as Hurungwe, Sanyati, and Kariba are among the hardest hit, with infections rising rapidly. Officials reported 64 new cases within just 24 hours, highlighting the speed of transmission.

Children under five and pregnant women remain the most vulnerable groups, with health officials stressing the need for urgent intervention.

Authorities have raised alarm over shortages of insecticide-treated mosquito nets, a key line of defence against malaria.

“Insecticide-treated nets are currently out of stock across targeted districts, although orders have been placed,” officials said.

The shortages risk exposing already vulnerable communities to increased infection rates, especially during peak transmission periods.

Experts say systemic challenges are compounding the outbreak, including delays in indoor residual spraying, logistical constraints, and growing insecticide resistance. Rusike emphasised the importance of strengthening community-level healthcare systems.

“Ensuring village health workers are adequately supported, trained and supplied with Rapid Diagnostic Tests will enhance early diagnosis and treatment at the community level, saving lives,” he said.

The CWGH has urged the government to increase domestic funding for malaria control programmes, including ring-fencing resources such as the sugar tax and airtime levy to reduce reliance on external donors. Public health specialists say sustained investment in prevention, treatment, and surveillance will be critical to reversing the current trend.

The warning comes as the world marked World Malaria Day under the theme “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can, Now We Must,” highlighting the urgency of coordinated action. Health authorities are urging communities to remain vigilant by using protective measures, seeking early diagnosis, and adhering to treatment guidelines. Without immediate and sustained intervention, experts warn that Zimbabwe risks a prolonged malaria crisis that could strain the healthcare system and endanger thousands of lives.

Zimbabwe malaria cases