adminChipinge Correspondent
A GROUP of vendors on Tuesday thronged Zanu-PF Chipinge District offices demanding an explanation from councillors over the delays in allocating them vending stalls as well as the exorbitant fees being charged to occupy the recently completed structure. The new vending structure is set to accommodate over 600 vendors. The vendors argued the $300 being charged for a table was too much. They also argued that the table was too small for them to sell an assortment of goods.
It was not business as usual for vendors since last week as the town council demolished their temporary structures, paving way for the relocation of vendors to the ending structure which was recently completed.
A visit to the vending site on Wednesday showed that a sizeable number of vendors were already setting up their tables.
One of the vendors, Mr Taurai Musikavanhu, said the one square metre table they were being allocated was too small.
“Imagine how we can pay $300 for one-square meter table which is not enough to accommodate all our assortment of goods. The table they are offering us can only accommodate four pairs of shoes,” he said.
Another vendor, Ms Melody Mwoyokudu, blasted the council for letting vendors down by delaying finishing construction of the new vending structure.
She said vendors were surprised to be told that they owe the local authority $300 despite promises that they would not pay anything at the temporary shelters.
“When the local authority allocated us at temporary structures they promised us they will finish this structure in three months time. During those days council officials promised to resign if this structure failed to meet the three months deadline, but what is worrying it is that it took three years to complete, but no-one resigned. We are worried to hear them saying we owe them $300, where is the money coming from? They are not coming for dialogue with us and that is why we visited them at their offices and homes to discuss the issue,” she added.
Contacted for comment, Chipinge Town Council chairperson, Councillor Lovemore Huni, said they working flat out to ensure that vendors get the best places to sell their wares.
Clr Huni said the issue of stall sizes would be addressed urgently.
“Vendors should not always be cry babies. The council is doing everything to provide them with the best structures. We have allowed all struggling vendors to come up with payments plans for new the vending stalls. Our offices are always open for dialogue. We are happy to announce that the new vending structure will accommodate close to 600 vendors,” he added.
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