Online Reporter
Nkosilathi Ndlovu
A group of informal traders operating illegally in Bulawayo’s Central Business District (CBD) have boldly declared their intention to continue trading despite ongoing crackdowns by the City of Bulawayo Municipal Police.
The group, led by Mr Thabo Mhlonitshwa Ndlovu and Taurai Moyo, who both identify themselves as war veterans and Zanu-PF members, claim they are immune to arrest and have effectively taken control of several trading sites in the city.
Addressing the media, Mr Ndlovu stated, “We do not recognise any by-laws or the so-called operations launched by the municipal police. This city belongs to us, and we have the backing of the people. They can never arrest us because we are protected by our struggle credentials and political affiliation.”
His counterpart, Mr Moyo, added, “We have taken over key trading sites in the CBD and are running them 24/7. Day or night, our vending will continue. The authorities can try all they want, but they will fail to stop us because we are organised and determined.”
The illegal vending crisis in Bulawayo has been escalating over the years, with informal traders increasingly occupying public spaces and trading without permits. This has led to numerous clashes between vendors and municipal authorities, who cite concerns over hygiene, traffic obstruction, and public safety.
Repeated municipal crackdowns have failed to fully dislodge these traders, many of whom rely on vending as their primary source of income amid economic challenges.
Despite attempts by the City of Bulawayo to enforce by-laws and conduct operations to clear illegal traders, the resilience and defiance of groups such as the one led by Ndlovu and Moyo highlight the complexities the city faces in balancing economic survival for informal workers and maintaining urban order.
As the standoff continues, municipal authorities are expected to intensify efforts to restore order, but traders insist their presence in the city’s commercial heart is non-negotiable. The unfolding situation poses a significant challenge to Bulawayo’s urban management and social stability.
Bongani Ndlovu