Bulawayo Addresses Bedbug Concerns as Cases Emerge

10 June 2025

By Andile Vundla

The Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has officially responded to recent reports of bedbug infestations within the city, confirming some cases while clarifying others that circulated on social media.

In a statement, The City of Bulawayo highlighted that it was first made aware of bedbugs’ cases through social media around the 7th of May 2025 which alleged that there were bedbugs in Nketa, Nkulumane, Njube and Mpopoma.

However, a subsequent investigation revealed that many of these initial reports were false alarms. Upon investigation, it was discovered that there were two cases in Mpopoma and another one in Njube. The other reports were false rumours.

In response to these confirmed cases, the City took immediate action stating that, “fumigation was done by the City for the property in Njube at a cost of US$47 to cover the chemical costs while a private company did the fumigation in Mpopoma.”

Further developments occurred on June 9, 2025, when the City of Bulawayo received a press report alleging a new wave of infestation in Mpopoma. Upon investigation, evidence of bedbugs was established in two houses within the suburb. The City noted that the level of infestation was not severe, with only a few traces of bedbugs being observed.

The City of Bulawayo affirmed its commitment to continuous monitoring of the situation and assured residents that it is ready to respond appropriately to new reports.

Residents are urged to report any suspected or confirmed cases of bedbugs to the City of Bulawayo Customer Contact Centre. Reports can be made by calling 02922 71290 for all networks or via WhatsApp at 0774 668 432.