By: Shawn Uiseb
Southern African nations are currently contending with a resurgence of malaria, raising concern among regional health ministries and organisations.
The increase in reported cases across Zimbabwe, Botswana, Eswatini, and Namibia threatens to reverse crucial public health gains made over the past two decades.
Zimbabwe has recorded nearly 200,000 malaria cases so far this year, representing one of the highest upticks in recent memory.
The escalation is largely attributed to changing weather conditions, increased rainfall, poor drainage infrastructure, and expanded mosquito breeding grounds.
These environmental shifts have enabled malaria-carrying mosquitoes to thrive, particularly in rural and flood-prone areas.
Neighbouring countries are experiencing similar patterns. In Namibia, the northern regions—especially Zambezi and Kavango East—have seen a rise in malaria-related clinic visits.
Botswana and Eswatini have also reported localised outbreaks, prompting renewed indoor spraying campaigns, increased distribution of insecticide-treated bed nets, and community awareness drives.
International health bodies have expressed concern, urging countries to expand access to artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs), strengthen their surveillance systems, and address resource gaps.
Rural clinics across the region are reportedly struggling with shortages of rapid diagnostic kits and medication, especially in under-resourced and remote areas. Vulnerable groups such as children under five and pregnant women are most at risk.
The resurgence is further complicated by growing insecticide resistance among mosquito populations, which may reduce the effectiveness of traditional vector control methods. Experts are encouraging innovation in mosquito control, stronger regional coordination, and increased investment in preventative healthcare infrastructure.
In response to the outbreak, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) is set to convene an emergency meeting of health ministers in early August.
The meeting will focus on accelerating the regional malaria elimination strategy and mobilising additional funding to bolster frontline response efforts.
Until then, regional governments are urging residents in high-risk areas to take precautionary measures such as using treated nets, eliminating stagnant water sources, and seeking prompt medical attention when experiencing malaria symptoms.
The resurgence has made it clear that the fight against malaria remains an urgent priority across the region.
