Govt reassures Mbare traders

Mukudzei Chingwere, Herald Reporter

Ministers yesterday reassured Mbare Musika traders of full Government support as they pick themselves up following the devastating fire that destroyed their stalls and wares.

The fire, which broke out last week, destroyed the stock kept at the market and left many families in agony with an estimated 5 000 people affected. During the visit, the Ministers commiserated with the traders, but assured them that assistance is on its way.

The commitment follows President Mnangagwa’s declaration of the fire a state of disaster, which paves the way for Government coordinated aid.

Women Affairs Community Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister Monica Mutsvangwa, in her address to the traders, emphasised the importance of supporting local businesses.

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“You are very key to the economy and SMEs are the driver of our economy so President Mnangagwa’s Government will not fold its arms after this disaster. You will be assisted to rebuild your livelihoods,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.

“The President declared the fire a disaster paving way for you to be assisted and we are here to hear your concerns which will be taken back to the President so that you get the assistance.

“We heard that you do not want to be removed from here, that you want to continue with your livelihoods here and we will support you as well as assisting those who were affected because we want you to grow,” said Minister Mutsvangwa.

Women’s Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Minister Monica Mutsvangwa (left) converse with Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe (centre) while Harare Mayor Jsacob Mafume (right) during a tour at Mbare retail market following the fire that swept the traders market destroying stalls and goods in Harare recently -Picture:Nicholas Bakili

In addition to financial assistance, the Ministers discussed plans for fire safety training to prevent future incidents.

“We want to ensure that our markets are safe spaces for all traders and customers,” said Minister of Local Government and Public Works Daniel Garwe.

“As we work on reviving your livelihoods we also proposed that we might take the opportunity to build the stores so that they will be safe, secure and clean.”

Minister Garwe called on the traders to inculcate a culture of discipline which is free from drug and substance abuse.

Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Metropolitan Charles Tavengwa said their presence in Mbare was an indication that the traders will not be left to suffer alone after the unfortunate incident.