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THE City of Bulawayo has announced the relocation of informal traders operating at 5th Avenue to the Bhaktas 2 Site, located along Lobengula Street and 2nd Avenue.The move, aimed at decongesting the city centre and improving order, follows ongoing efforts by the council to regulate informal trading in the Central Business District (CBD).In a public notice issued on Monday, 17 March 2025, the Town Clerk Mr Christopher Dube outlined key details of the relocation plan.
Priority will be given to the first 600 trading bays at Bhaktas for traders who were operating legally at 5th Avenue.
An additional 460 bays will be allocated to traders previously assigned bays at Bhaktas who have fulfilled all licensing and rental obligations.
“Council encourages all traders from 5th Avenue to visit the City of Bulawayo Vending Offices at the former Dugmore Clinic Offices along Basch Street/6th Avenue, where compliant traders can be assisted in identifying their designated bay numbers at the new Bhaktas site,” said the town clerk.
The relocation comes amid growing tensions between the council and informal traders, who have previously resisted moves to vacate the CBD.
In recent months, the council has intensified efforts to enforce trading regulations, including the prohibition of pushcarts in certain parts of the CBD under SI 220 of 2023.
“Pushcarts shall not be allowed in the part of the central business area bounded by 3rd Avenue, Lobengula Street, 12th Avenue, and Robert Mugabe Way. Any violation will attract a level 1 fine plus impounding costs,” the council reiterated.
The relocation of 5th Avenue traders follows a series of similar moves by the council, including the recent clearance of illegal vendors along Jason Moyo Street and the introduction of designated vending zones.
These measures have been met with mixed reactions, with some traders welcoming the move for bringing order, while others lament the loss of prime trading locations.
Mr Dube urged affected traders to cooperate during the transition period. “We urge all affected traders to cooperate with the authorities during this transition period to ensure a smooth relocation process. Your understanding and compliance with the Council’s decision are greatly appreciated,” he said.
For further enquiries, traders are encouraged to contact the Town Planning Department on 02922 75011.
