Wenslus Murape
H-Metro Reporter
WOMEN Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister, Monica Mutsvangwa, says the fire which engulfed Mbare Traders Market on Tuesday affected about 4695 traders.
The blaze left a trail of destruction and the losses are estimated to be in thousands of dollars. Min Mutsvangwa said her Ministry was engaging with other Government Departments and Agencies, as well as Development Partners, to come up with a comprehensive response plan.
“Preliminary assessments have indicated that the fire caused extensive damage to the market, destroying the entire retail section and parts of the wholesale market,” Min Mutsvangwa said.
“This has had a profound impact on the lives of approximately 4,695 traders occupying over 1565 tables who depend on this market for their primary source of income.
“This tragedy has negatively impacted not only the traders but also the suppliers and other players in the value chains that support the market.
“In this regard the Ministry is engaging with other Government Departments and Agencies as well as Development Partners to come up with a comprehensive response plan.
“The nation will be kept abreast of the measures that will be undertaken to ameliorate the negative impact of the disaster.”
Online Reporter