Chronicle Editor
Sandisiwe Gumbo, Sunday News Reporter
THE devastating incident where a fire recently engulfed Mutize Flea Market in Bulawayo reducing it to a shell has left traders impoverished as most lost their sources of livelihood and are now operating from outside the shell of what remained of their work space.
The traders are appealing for financial assistance, even in the form of affordable loans, to help them recapitalise without which most of them will never recover. Mrs Opper Mataswa (64) who has been in the business for more than 20 years said she lost stuff worth thousands of US dollars, adding that buying and selling was her only source of livelihood.
“I have diabetes and I need to take my medication on a daily basis, I no longer have a source of income and I do not know how I will be able to afford my next bottle of pills. I also have an eye problem that requires me to take eye drops every hour. I am concerned because I can no longer afford medication anymore,” she said.
The fire, which ravaged the popular flea market, resulted in significant financial losses for Mrs Mataswa and many others. She said she has also been taking care of her 22-year-old grandson who is wheelchair-bound and unable to look after himself.
“In order to ensure his well-being, l had hired a maid to assist with his daily care. However, due to the financial strain caused by the fire, l can no longer afford to pay the maid’s wages. I’m old and I need assistance. It is my plea to receive capital support that would enable me to continue living and provide for myself and my grandson,” she said.
Another trader, Mrs Nokubonga Fuzani expressed concern on how she will manage to survive with her family since she has lost all the stock. The 44-year-old had been dependent on selling clothes for over 25 years.
“This incident has deeply affected me, both financially and emotionally. I have lost stock worth thousands of US dollars and I have no other source of income. I have no idea what to do next to earn an honest living. I have children who need to go to school and eat every day. At this point, I do not know how we are going to survive. We are just leaving everything in God’s hands,” she said.
Ms Naomi Chigwedere revealed that she had been keeping her earnings in the market for security reasons, leaving her with no financial resources at the moment.
“Life is getting tough for me. I do not have a single cent on me right now as I was leaving all my money in the market for security reasons, l lost savings of US$1 000. I now depend on my husband, and it is not that easy,” she lamented.
In response to the tragic event, Mr Winos Dube of the Bulawayo United Residence Association (Bura) said the traders should be assisted.
“The incident came as a shock to us as a community. It is very touching and I feel sorry for them. People lost a lot of their property and the road to recovery will be long and difficult, but with collective effort, it is hoped that these individuals will be able to rebuild their lives and regain their financial independence.”
He said recognising the immediate challenges faced by those affected, the importance of securing insurance for their properties cannot be overemphasized.
Online Reporter