In an effort to prevent a surge in cholera cases during the upcoming Easter holidays, the Zimbabwean government has announced strict new measures.

Information Minister Jenfan Muswere outlined these "No church gatherings must take place until church leaders install solar-powered boreholes or bush pump boreholes, as well as sanitation facilities... All gatherings must obtain prior clearance and should be supervised by health authorities."

The Easter holidays, beginning on Thursday, traditionally see large church gatherings, posing a risk of spreading cholera without proper sanitation. "We are taking these measures to protect our citizens during this important religious period," Muswere added.

The World Health Organization reports over 20,000 cases and 370 deaths from cholera in Zimbabwe since February 2023. The government, along with other authorities, continues to work on containing the outbreak.

Japan recently provided a $774,000 grant for cholera response in vulnerable communities. Japanese Ambassador Shinichi Yamanaka expressed hope, saying, "I hope that our support will allow the most vulnerable people to recover quickly and rebuild their lives. I also hope it will help prevent the further spread of this disease and future outbreaks.”

Minister Muswere also revealed that suspected cholera cases currently stand at 29,144. He noted ongoing collaboration with the Apostolic Women Empowerment Trust to train Interfaith Leaders as part of the cholera and polio response.

Additionally, President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa has ordered the installation of solarized water facilities and boreholes to ensure safe water and sanitation at the Karuyana Shrine and other high-risk sites. "We will not tolerate conditions that endanger our people's health," Muswere said