Tsikidzi outbreak in Kwekwe clarified

Kwekwe Mayor Albert Zinhanga has addressed growing concerns over a reported outbreak of bed bugs (commonly known as tsikidzi) in the city, confirming that the issue is confined to specific areas within two suburbs.

Speaking to the media, Mayor Zinhanga clarified that while the City of Kwekwe has intensified fumigation efforts, the infestation is not citywide but rather restricted to targeted sections of Mbizo Section 7 and Amaveni.

"As the City of Kwekwe, we have been carrying out regular fumigation, particularly in the affected areas of Mbizo Section 7 and Amaveni," he said. "However, I want to clarify that the outbreak is limited to specific parts of these suburbs — it is not the entire Amaveni or all of Mbizo 7, but only certain sections where the bed bugs have been found."

City health teams have been deployed to the affected zones to carry out fumigation and raise public awareness about hygiene and preventive measures. Residents have been urged to cooperate with municipal teams and report any further signs of infestation.

The outbreak has sparked concern among locals, with some calling for broader preventive action in other high-density suburbs to avoid further spread. Bed bugs, which thrive in crowded and unhygienic environments, are notoriously difficult to eliminate once an infestation is established.

Mayor Zinhanga emphasized the importance of community involvement in the city's efforts to contain the situation. He also indicated that the council is considering additional interventions, including public health education campaigns and increased surveillance in nearby areas.

The city continues to monitor the situation and has assured residents that all necessary steps are being taken to bring the outbreak under control.