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A RISING concern in Bulawayo is the proliferation of cooked food vending in unregulated spaces.
According to the latest council report, councillors noted parallels with food poisoning incidents in neighbouring South Africa and called for immediate enforcement of by-laws. The Director of Health Services, Dr Edwin Sibanda, acknowledged the risks posed by night vending and the sale of food from uninspected premises, which violates city regulations.
The council committed to extending enforcement operations into the night to curb illegal activities. Residents have been urged to avoid purchasing food from unauthorised vendors.
It is noted in the report that the city’s enforcement efforts have been marred by allegations of corruption among council staff. Councillors expressed concern over bribery involving security personnel at vending sites, particularly in Nkulumane’s Sekusile Shopping Centre. Social media reports have further exposed corrupt practices within the council.
In response, the council pledged to intensify staff supervision and enforce disciplinary measures against offenders. Plans are also underway to revise staff schedules to cover night-time operations, ensuring stricter compliance with health and safety regulations.
Councillors emphasised the need for collaboration with the central government to address lawlessness and improve city standards. Proposals included the reopening of two-way traffic along 5th Avenue and relocating vending bays
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