Zimbabwe's vendors face swift eviction, futures un...

Zimbabwe's vendors face swift eviction, futures uncertain

Philemon Jambaya

Zim Now Editor

A wave of anxiety has gripped Zimbabwe's informal trading sector as the government issued a stark 48-hour ultimatum to all illegal vendors, demanding their immediate removal from urban streets.

The directive, aimed at restoring order and addressing alleged health and safety concerns, has ignited a firestorm of controversy, casting a long shadow over the livelihoods of thousands who rely on vending for survival.

The sudden mandate has left many, particularly women who form a significant portion of the vendor population, in a state of desperation. For many, vending is not a choice but a necessity, a lifeline in a nation grappling with high unemployment and economic hardship.

"Where will I go?" laments Tendai Mhlanga, a mother of four who sells vegetables . "This is how I feed my children. If I don't sell, we don't eat."

"I have been selling here for 10 years," says Mai Ruvimbo, a widow who sells second-hand clothes at Coppa Cabana. "This is all I know. How can they take this away from me in just two days?"

"My children's school fees depend on this," explains Shamiso, her voice trembling. "What am I supposed to do? Beg?"

"We are not criminals," says Nyasha, a single mother selling fruits. "We are trying to survive. This is our only option."

"This is not fair," says Thandiwe, a vendor selling phone accessories. "We are just trying to make a living, like everyone else."

These voices echo the sentiments of countless vendors facing an uncertain future. The government's directive, while intended to create a more orderly urban environment, has been met with fierce criticism, particularly from organizations representing vendors.

Samuel Wadzai, Director of the Vendors Initiative for Social and Economic Transformation , condemned the government's approach, stating, "While the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works raises legitimate concerns regarding the proliferation of illegal vendors in urban areas, it's crucial to examine the broader context behind this issue. The call to remove these vendors from the streets within a strict 48-hour timeframe lacks an understanding of the socio-economic realities faced by many individuals in our communities, particularly those who have been marginalized and left with few alternatives for their livelihood."

Wadzai highlighted the desperation driving many into informal trading. "First and foremost, many of these vendors operate out of necessity. With high unemployment rates and limited access to formal job opportunities, illegal vending often becomes a vital means of survival for many families. Displacing these vendors without providing them with viable alternatives for income will not only disrupt their livelihoods but also exacerbate poverty levels. Instead of a blanket removal plan, the government should consider engaging these vendors in dialogue to better understand their circumstances and find mutually beneficial solutions."

He also challenged the perception of vendors as contributors to crime and health hazards. "Furthermore, the assumption that illegal vending inherently contributes to crime and health hazards ignores the complex socio-economic dynamics at play. Criminal activities can occur in any environment, and simply associating them with vendors does a disservice to many who are simply trying to make an honest living. The focus should be on ensuring proper regulation and oversight, creating designated vending zones equipped with necessary facilities rather than an outright ban. This approach provides a framework for supporting these vendors while also addressing health and safety concerns."

Wadzai advocated for the integration of informal vendors into the formal economy. "Moreover, the realities of urban informal economies cannot be ignored. Across many cities in the world, informal markets are not only a source of livelihood but also contribute to the local economy. Instead of criminalizing these efforts, the government could explore ways to integrate informal vendors into the formal economy, providing training, support, and access to resources that would benefit both the vendors and the community at large."

He concluded with a call for a collaborative approach. "In conclusion, while the intention to create a safe and orderly environment is commendable, the execution must consider the lived experiences of those affected. A collaborative approach that regards vendors as stakeholders in the community, rather than criminals or nuisances, is essential in fostering a sustainable urban environment that serves everyone. Let's advocate for policies that will enhance livelihoods rather than disrupt them."