Hwange Local Board unveils support plan for informal traders

Fairness Moyana in Hwange

HWANGE Local Board (HLB) is rolling out a comprehensive plan to provide alternative vending infrastructure for informal traders in a bid to curb illegal vending and promote regulated trade in the mining town.

To support the informal sector, the local authority has already begun implementing several key projects. These include the construction of 61 low-cost, standardised vending stalls at Empumalanga Terminus, the establishment of a flea market, and the setting up of market stalls at major shopping centres across the town.

In an interview, HLB town secretary, Mr Ndumiso Mdlalose, said the initiative aligns with Government calls for local authorities to adopt innovative solutions that promote regulated informal trade while addressing concerns about illegal vending.

“Hwange Local Board (HLB) has observed a significant increase in informal trading across its area of jurisdiction, particularly in the high-density suburb of Empumalanga. Informal traders, offering goods ranging from clothing to vegetables, have been operating in undesignated areas within our jurisdiction,” he said.

Mr Mdlalose explained that the council is prioritising structured working spaces for vendors to create an orderly and conducive trading environment.

“Projects earmarked for implementation in the first quarter of this year include the construction of 61 low-cost, standardised vending stalls at Empumalanga Terminus, alongside the refurbishment of public toilets at the site, which have been out of service for over 10 years,” he said.

“This facility will provide a much-needed space for traders and enhance the overall user experience. Work on this project has already commenced, with the construction of 22 vending bays in the first phase.”

Mr Mdlalose also mentioned that vegetable market stalls are being constructed at Baobab Shopping Centre, Bagdad Section Shopping Centre, and DRC Section Shopping Centre.

“Each location will feature 14 stalls, offering further opportunities for informal traders to operate in organised and conducive environments,” he said.

Mr Mdlalose highlighted that the much-awaited Empumalanga Flea Market, an ambitious project aimed at revitalising the local economy, is now 60 percent complete.

“While construction was delayed due to insufficient funds from the devolution funds, plans are now in place to complete the project. As the council, we intend to enter into a Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) arrangement with a private investor to finalise the construction of a sustainable and vibrant marketplace for informal traders,” he said.

“As part of our commitment to supporting the informal sector, the council recognises the importance of providing organised marketing facilities, friendly policy frameworks, and enhanced business amenities for vendors.”

Mr Mdlalose said HLB has engaged in constructive dialogue with informal traders, encouraging them to register and apply for designated trading spaces. This initiative has been met with a positive response, with about 500 informal traders registering to benefit.

The Government has been urging local authorities, who play a critical role in enabling the informal economy, to foster an environment that supports informal businesses, contributes to social inclusion, and provides support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).