Mbare traders affected by fire inferno Govt to intervene

By Sam Mupedziswa

The Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Daniel Garwe updated Cabinet on Mbare Traders Market Reconstruction. The reorganisation of the Mbare Musika Traders Market comes after it was declared a State of Disaster, by His Excellency, President Dr. E. D. Mnangagwa on 14 October, 2024  in the aftermath of the Mbare Fire disaster. Government has put in place a response and recovery plan under the Building Back Better programme.

Minster of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services  Honorable Jenfan Muswere told journalists during a post-Cabinet media briefing yesterday that, “a total of 4 695 traders were directly affected when a fire engulfed Mbare Musika market place recently, with the tragedy having a negative bearing on the livelihoods of 23 000 people.” 

Muswere said, “the Government will intervene through a number of initiatives which include provision of immediate relief in the form of livelihood support, such as; cash transfers, payment of school fees and psychosocial support and child protection. Immediate resuscitation of businesses through loans, grants to assist traders with restocking of goods.” 

The minister added that, “provision of alternative and conducive workspace, the Harare City Council has offered the open space opposite Carter House as an alternative while reconstruction is taking place.” He further noted that economic empowerment programmes that support stakeholders in rebuilding their businesses and promoting economic stability are being put in place.

“A three (3) floor model design is being proposed at the Mbare Musika Traders Market whereby businesses will be classified and accommodated on all the three levels. The reconstructed main market will accommodate at least 10 000 traders.” 

“Work on the reconstruction of the new Mbare Musika Traders Market is expected to take seven (7) months to complete, effective November 2024. The Mbare Musika Traders Market project will serve to pilot the Smart Market concept. The objective of the Smart Market concept is the enhancement of trading environment through provision of safe and modern facilities” said, Minister Muswere.