Investigating the prevalence of malaria: a case of Manhenga, Bindura 2020-2024 · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author

Bvembe, Blessed.

Title

Investigating the prevalence of malaria: a case of Manhenga, Bindura 2020-2024

Abstract

This study investigated the prevalence and persistence of malaria in Bindura District, Zimbabwe, with the aim of evaluating the effectiveness of current control measures and proposing improvements for more sustainable malaria prevention and management. A mixed methods research design was adopted, combining quantitative data from structured questionnaires administered to 80 community members (equally split between urban and rural settings) and qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with 20 health professionals across 10 strategically selected clinics. The findings revealed spatial disparities in malaria burden, with rural clinics particularly Foothills Clinic in a mining zone reporting significantly higher case numbers due to environmental factors such as stagnant water bodies from mining and poor drainage systems. Between 2020 and 2022, a total of 1,747 malaria cases were recorded, with cases peaking in 2020 before declining in subsequent years, suggesting partial success of existing interventions. Despite high community awareness that malaria is transmitted by mosquitoes (90–95%), the study found significant rural-urban differences in access to malaria control tools and healthcare services. Regular use of mosquito nets and coverage by indoor residual spraying (IRS) were notably higher in urban areas, while rural respondents faced greater barriers including under-resourced clinics, limited outreach, and affordability issues. Health workers highlighted logistical challenges in implementing IRS and larval source management in remote areas, alongside socio-economic constraints that hinder community participation in preventive efforts.
The study concludes that while existing malaria control strategies have had measurable impact, they remain insufficiently targeted and unevenly applied. It recommends a more integrated, proactive approach combining improved distribution of prevention tools, enhanced environmental management in mining and farming areas, and strengthened community engagement. The findings underscore the need for equitable, context-specific interventions to reduce malaria transmission and strengthen public health resilience in Bindura

Date

June 2025

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Prevalence and Persistence of Malaria

Sustainable Malaria Prevention and Management

Supervisor

Mr. Nhokovedzo