07/12/2025
FRIDGES TURN INTO HOMES FOR COCKROACHES IN ZAMBIA DUE TO POWER SHORTAGES
By Dr. Mtonga N. Isaac – Public Health Advocate, Herbal Medicine Expert, and Community Empowerment Leader
INTRODUCTION
In recent months, Zambia has faced intensified electricity shortages, leaving many households without power for extended periods. As a result, refrigerators—once vital tools for food preservation—have become warm, stagnant spaces. These conditions have turned fridges into ideal breeding grounds for cockroaches, posing serious health risks and economic burdens for families across the nation.
HEALTH RISKS
Cockroach infestations are not just unpleasant—they are dangerous. These pests carry bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can contaminate food and surfaces, leading to diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach infections. Their droppings and shed skins also trigger asthma and allergies, especially in children. In neglected fridges, cockroaches multiply rapidly, increasing the risk of parasitic infections and respiratory complications.
ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL IMPACT
Families are losing stored food due to spoilage, forcing them to spend more on daily meals. This strain is especially felt in low-income communities. The reflects deeper infrastructure challenges, including unreliable power supply and limited access to pest control education.
PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS
As a doctor and herbal medicine advocate, I urge every household to take the following steps:
- Clean fridges regularly, even when not in use.
- Remove spoiled food immediately to prevent bacterial growth.
- Use natural repellents such as bay leaves, neem, garlic, or herbal sprays.
- Educate your community about safe food storage and pest prevention.
- Support renewable energy initiatives to reduce dependence on unstable grids.
FAITH AND COMMUNITY RESPONSE
Let us not respond with fear, but with faith and action. In Proverbs 24:3, we are reminded: “By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established.” Let us apply wisdom in our homes—cleaning, teaching, and protecting our families. Let us also advocate for better infrastructure and support one another in times of need.
CONCLUSION
This is a call to action. The cockroach crisis in our fridges is a symptom of a larger problem—but it is also an opportunity. An opportunity to educate, to organize, and to uplift our communities with practical solutions rooted in tradition, science, and faith. Together, we can restore health, dignity, and safety in every Zambian home.
—Dr. Mtonga N. Isaac
Founder, Mtonga Isaac Pharmacy & Mtonga Isaac Advertising Media
Architect of BlueEye Lite social media app | Herbal Medicine Advocate | One Community Group Leader for people living with disabilities.
