adminNyemudzai Kakore Herald Correspondent
Mbudzi People’s Market opens its doors to the public and traders today in a move expected to curb illegal vending and decongest the city centre.
The multi-million-dollar Mbudzi People’s Market near Boka Tobacco Auction Floors, is a joint venture project between the City of Harare and Augur Investments.
About 200 informal and formal traders are set to benefit from the new facility. Augur Investments chairman, Mr Ken Sharpe, said the shopping complex was ready for use.
“This investment will bring significant employment and downstream job creation for indigenous people and has a positive impact on the surrounding community and towards the national economic policy Zim- Asset.”
“This event will mark the pioneering of a hybrid retail centre, the first of its kind in Zimbabwe.”
The construction of Mbudzi People’s Market came as Government ordered informal traders out of the streets of Harare to trade at designated points.
Mr Sharpe said the market consisted of 10 enclosed structures with a covered central walkway that protects shoppers from bad weather.
He said the market comprises over 200 stores and tables ranging from restaurants and take- away units, banking halls and ATM facilities, groceries, fresh fruit and vegetable markets, fresh meat market, pharmacies, salons and beauty parlours, clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories.
Hardware and building materials, tyres and motor vehicle spare parts, furniture, jewellery and cosmetic stores, electronic gadgets such as cellphones and appliances are also accommodated. Parking for both private vehicles and a commuter omnibus rank have been incorporated at the one-stop shopping complex.
A large ablution block is provided to ensure a clean and hygienic environment at the market.
The city’s principal communications officer, Mr Michael Chideme, recently applauded the development by Augur Investments, saying this was in line with the city’s vision of creating a world class city by 2025.
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