Vulnerability to cholera pandemic in Harare suburbs: the case of Mbare

Author

Munosiwani, Nik

Title

Vulnerability to cholera pandemic in Harare suburbs: the case of Mbare

Abstract

Cholera remains a recurring public health threat in many urban informal settlements, particularly in Zimbabwe’s capital, Harare. This study investigated the factors contributing to vulnerability to cholera in the Mbare suburb, with the aim of identifying structural, social, and institutional determinants that sustain recurrent outbreaks. The research was guided by three objectives: to assess the root causes and triggers of cholera in Mbare, to explore how vulnerability is experienced across different population groups, and to examine the community-level coping strategies and responses. The study adopted a qualitative case study approach rooted in an interpretivist paradigm, using interviews, focus group discussions, and document review for data collection. This study found that vulnerability to cholera in Mbare is largely shaped by deteriorating sanitation infrastructure, persistent water shortages, overcrowding, weak institutional coordination, and the limited inclusion of communities in public health planning. Women and informal dwellers were particularly affected due to social and spatial inequalities. Community members have developed coping mechanisms, but these remain informal and unsupported. The study concludes that cholera control in Mbare requires a multi-dimensional strategy that blends infrastructural investment with inclusive governance and culturally grounded public health interventions. Addressing cholera in the area demands not only technical solutions but also social justice and participatory approaches that recognise and integrate local voices and knowledge systems.

Date

June 2025

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Vulnerability

Cholera Pandemic

Supervisor

Dr. Maponga