Oscar J Jeke
Zim Now Reporter
The Government of Zimbabwe has announced plans to rebuild the Mbare Musika Traders Market following a devastating fire that destroyed parts of the historic trading hub earlier this month. The reconstruction, part of the Building Back Better initiative, will expand the market to accommodate up to 10 000 traders in a modern, multi-story complex that introduces the Smart Market concept.
Addressing Cabinet on the project, Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, emphasized the government’s commitment to not only restoring but also enhancing the livelihoods of traders affected by the fire.
Government’s plan for reconstruction will include both immediate relief and long-term solutions to support those who lost their businesses in the fire. As part of the response, affected traders are set to receive a combination of financial support, school fee coverage for their children, and psychosocial services.
“A total of 4 695 traders, including 1 511 stall operators and 3,184 lessees, were directly impacted by the fire, affecting nearly 23 000 livelihoods. We are implementing safety nets to help them rebuild, starting with cash transfers and grants that can get them back on their feet,” stated Minister Garwe.
In addition to direct financial support, the government is providing traders with an alternative trading space opposite Carter House in Mbare while the main market undergoes construction. The Harare City Council has offered this location temporarily to minimize disruptions to business and help traders resume operations as soon as possible.
Minister Garwe elaborated on the vision for the new three-floor market design, which aims to better accommodate diverse types of traders while integrating safety enhancements. “The reconstructed market will use a densified, multi-story structure designed to prevent future incidents like the fire we’ve just experienced,” he explained. “With this new design, we are piloting Zimbabwe’s Smart Market concept, which will offer a safer and modernized trading environment.”
“A three 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 months to complete, effective November 2024,” Garwe added.
The reconstruction project, according to the government, is also aimed at strengthening economic stability. Through business resuscitation programs, such as loans, grants, and stimulus packages, affected traders will be supported in restocking goods and rebuilding their businesses. Additionally, the government has committed to implementing empowerment programs to help businesses develop a sustainable footing.
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