adminTanaka Mahanya
CHAOS now reigns in the Harare Central Business District, with vendors virtually on every pavement.
A survey by H-Metro has shown that second-hand clothing, food vendors, foreign currency dealers, touts and beggars have become a menace on the streets of the capital, making weekend shopping very difficult.
Shupikai Chinokora, a vendor, said they were making more money on Saturdays.
“We pay rent from the money we get here.
“Selling on the streets is the only way we can take care of our families,” she said.
First Street, which used to be one of the cleanest streets in Harare, is now an eyesore, and is littered with all types of traders and dealers.
Vendors selling shoes, clothes and cosmetics have taken over the street, blocking customers who intend to buy from nearby shops.
Shop owners are the ones getting a raw deal.
They pay rentals the Harare City Council every month, only to compete with vendors, selling an assortment of products, including what they stock in-store, right on their doorstep.
Kombi drivers and touts are also a menace at the corner of Robert Mugabe Road and Julius Nyerere Way.
They engage in “cat-and-mouse” games with the police during peak hour, placing the lives of commuters and pedestrians at risk.
Construction House has also been invaded by second-hand vendors, plying their trade at night.
They come in the evening to avoid clashing with municipal police.
A lot needs to be done for Harare to retain its once glowing status of being the Sunshine City.
It has now turned into a garbage city, with trash in every street.
Walking in the CBD is now a nightmare, as one has to constantly try to avoid stepping on vendors’ wares.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter