Man dies after bee attack at Harare gardens

A man from Zvimba, Mashonaland West Province, tragically died after being stung by a swarm of bees at Harare Gardens on Saturday, 19 October 2025.

The victim, identified as Liberty Sithole, was taken to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, where he later passed away.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, 21 October, Harare City Council confirmed the incident and extended condolences to Sithole's family.

The council said the swarm of bees had temporarily settled in a tree stump within Harare Gardens and was removed by the Environmental Health – Pest Control Section under the City Health Department on Sunday evening.

"The City of Harare wishes to inform residents and visitors that a swarm of bees which had temporarily taken shelter in Harare Gardens was successfully removed… Unfortunately, one person was attacked and fatally injured before the City's emergency response team intervened," the statement read.

The council assured the public that all affected areas had been inspected and declared safe. "Residents and visitors are therefore advised that Harare Gardens is now safe and open to the public. Normal activities may continue as usual," the statement added.

Harare City Council further clarified that it does not maintain bee colonies in its public parks and that the incident involved a transient swarm seeking temporary shelter.

The council pledged continued monitoring of public spaces to prevent similar occurrences, emphasizing its commitment to residents' safety and well-being.