A sharp increase in malaria cases has been reported across Eswatini, with the Ministry of Health confirming 296 infections and four deaths between July 2024 and mid-April 2025.
The most affected areas are in the Hhohho and Lubombo regions, which account for a combined total of 238 cases. Specific hotspots include Mhlangatane, Madlangempisi, Nkilongo, Sithobela, and Hlane, where indigenous transmission has been detected.
Health officials from the National Malaria Programme and national surveillance teams have linked the spike to a rise in mosquito breeding driven by unusually wet and warm conditions over the past few months. Entomological findings point to a growing population of Anopheles mosquitoes—the primary carriers of malaria.
The Ministry has rolled out several interventions to manage the outbreak. These include indoor residual spraying (IRS) in households that were previously not covered, active testing in high-risk communities, and the distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito nets, especially in areas with informal farming activity. Health education campaigns and the training of frontline health workers have also been intensified.
However, challenges remain. Some homesteads have refused indoor spraying, reducing coverage and increasing vulnerability. The movement of people from malaria-endemic countries has also introduced asymptomatic carriers into local communities, further complicating efforts to control the disease.
Outdoor lifestyles, particularly in rural areas where informal agriculture is common, are increasing the risk of mosquito bites and exposure to malaria.
The Ministry is urging all emaSwati to seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms such as headaches, fever, chills, or body aches. Residents are also being asked to allow spraying teams access to their homes and to sleep under treated mosquito nets every night.
People planning to travel to countries with known malaria transmission are advised to take preventive medication and follow protective measures to avoid infection.
The Ministry says it remains committed to reversing the rise in cases and safeguarding the progress made in recent years toward malaria elimination.
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