By Staff Reporter

The Kwekwe City Council has raised concern over a sharp increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the city, with Mbizo 15 and 22 emerging as the most affected areas, according to health information tabled during the latest full council meeting.

It was revealed that a total of 396 STI cases were recorded in May 2025, up from 337 cases in April, representing a 17.5% increase. Health officials said the majority of the infections were reported from Mbizo Sections 15 and 22, while mining areas recorded the lowest number of cases.

The age group most affected was 25 years and above, with males accounting for 142 cases and females 101.

Councillor Kudakwashe Gwamuri expressed alarm at the statistics, noting a shift in STI hotspots from mining areas to residential suburbs.
“We thought that STIs were highly prevalent in mining areas, but they are now prevalent here in Mbizo 15 and 22. What steps are we taking to prevent the prevalence of STIs?” he said.

Councillor Albert Murapiro, who represents the affected areas, attributed the rise in infections to poor lighting infrastructure in the suburbs.
“Council should put tower lights in the area, as these STIs are being fueled by darkness. Bad things always happen in the cover of darkness. We are urging people to use condoms,” he said.

Health Committee Chairperson Councillor Nyika Panyika echoed the call for responsible sexual behaviour.
“We are urging residents to use protection to minimise the risk of STIs,” said Panyika.