The Ministry of Health and Child Care (MOHCC) has launched a National Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign targeting schistosomiasis (SCH), also known as bilharzia, as part of a major public health initiative aimed at protecting children and eliminating the disease as a national health concern.
In a statement, today, the Ministry informed, “The Ministry of Health and Child Care has embarked on the National Mass Drug Administration (MDA) for Schistosomiasis (SCH) or bilharzia, a critical public health initiative targeting children aged 5 to 14 years with the goal of eliminating SCH as a public health concern in Zimbabwe.”
The campaign, which will run from 16 to 21 February 2026, focuses on seven rural provinces, the Ministry noted.
“The campaign targets seven rural provinces Mashonaland East, Mashonaland West, Mashonaland Central, Midlands, Manicaland, Matabeleland South, and Masvingo,” the statement said.
The Ministry confirmed that the treatment will be free and accessible through multiple channels.
“The free treatment will be administered at your nearest Health Facility, Primary and Secondary school or static health point. The initiative aims to reach 1,477,966 children, who will receive Praziquantel to prevent and treat schistosomiasis,” the Ministry said.
Furthermore, the Ministry highlighted the importance of partnerships in ensuring the success of the MDA campaign.
“The campaign is being implemented with vital support from key partners such as Higherlife Foundation, which has provided financial and technical assistance, while the World Health Organization donated the required medication for the MDA,” the statement said.
Officials emphasised that the school and community-based intervention represents a major milestone in the country’s fight against schistosomiasis.
“This extensive school and community-based intervention marks a significant milestone toward eliminating schistosomiasis and improving the health and wellbeing of children in the targeted regions,” the Ministry said.
Schistosomiasis is a waterborne parasitic disease affecting millions of people globally, with children particularly vulnerable due to exposure during recreational or domestic water contact. The 2026 MDA campaign in Zimbabwe is part of a sustained effort by the Ministry and its partners to eliminate schistosomiasis nationwide.
