President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa has declared the destructive fire that gutted the Glenview Area 8 Furniture Complex on Sunday a State of Disaster, paving the way for an immediate government response.

The fire, which broke out in the early hours of the morning, destroyed hundreds of informal trading stalls and affected approximately 700 traders, many of whom lost all their stock and equipment.

The announcement was made Monday evening by the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Hon. Daniel Garwe, during a site visit to the destroyed market.

“Government will intervene immediately to assist victims of the fire,” said Garwe, who also acknowledged the increasing frequency of such disasters in the area. “This is an issue that happens every year. We cannot continue like this.”

The declaration enables the activation of national emergency services and support under the Civil Protection Act, and unlocks access to recovery funds for affected communities.

Fire Destroys Livelihoods of Over 700 Traders

The blaze engulfed makeshift furniture stalls—some made from wood and metal sheeting—consuming stock including wardrobes, sofas, beds, and machinery.

Firefighters were reportedly delayed by poor access roads and insufficient hydrants, compounding the loss.

Eyewitnesses reported that within minutes, flames had overtaken large portions of the complex, forcing business owners to flee.

“I watched my entire business burn down. I’ve been operating here for 12 years, and it’s all gone,” said Tafadzwa Moyo, one of the affected traders.

Government Plans Permanent Infrastructure and Market Relocation

Hon. Garwe said the government plans to begin Phase 2 of a formal market development project in September, modeled after the Mbare Musika redevelopment, to provide safer, more permanent trading environments.

A high-level meeting is scheduled with the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community and SME Development and the Harare City Council to identify temporary and long-term trading spaces. Proposed relocation areas include open grounds in Glenview 1.

“This is no longer just a Glenview 8 problem; it’s a national issue that calls for integrated planning and sustainable urban development,” Garwe said.

Urban Regeneration Policy Tied to Disaster Recovery

The government’s intervention aligns with President Mnangagwa’s Urban Regeneration Agenda, which aims to decongest informal settlements and markets while promoting safety and urban modernization.

“We are calling on residents and traders to support this policy and help transform our cities,” said Garwe.

“We must all move forward under the guidance of Education 5.0 and innovation.”

Also present at the Glenview site were:

• Hon. Monica Mutsvangwa, Minister of Women Affairs, Community and SME Development
• Councillor Jacob Mafume, Mayor of Harare
• Mr. Nathan Nkomo, Chief Director of the Civil Protection Department

Call for Public-Private Partnerships

The Ministry is urging local and international partners to assist with rebuilding efforts through public-private partnerships. Affected traders are encouraged to register with their ward offices to access business recovery support programs.

“The days of temporary wooden stalls must come to an end,” said Garwe. “We need permanent structures, modern safety systems, and long-term resilience planning.”