Zimbabwe Faces Sharp Rise in Malaria Cases: Over 130,000 Infections Recorded

Zimbabwe is grappling with a dramatic surge in malaria cases, with over 130,000 confirmed infections and 365 deaths reported as of August 2025—a staggering 302% increase compared to the same period last year, according to the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC).

A report compiled by Save the Children on October 16 highlights that the outbreak has placed immense pressure on health systems, particularly in Mashonaland Central, Manicaland, and Mashonaland West, which account for the majority of cases.

To bolster the national response, Save the Children has launched the HF Malaria Response through its Humanitarian Fund, in partnership with the Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC). The initiative targets four malaria hotspot districts - Mbire, Muzarabani, Chipinge, and Chimanimani—with a six-month intervention aimed at reducing illness and deaths while preparing for potential Mpox and Cholera outbreaks during the rainy season.

The response will focus on:

- Strengthening malaria case management, prevention, and surveillance  
- Enhancing community awareness and early treatment-seeking behavior  
- Building anticipatory capacity for other outbreaks  
- Reinforcing multi-sectoral coordination and monitoring for integrated response  

"This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to protecting children and families from preventable diseases and ensuring that communities are better equipped to face future health emergencies," the report states.