Online Reporter
Debra Matabvu
PREPARATIONS for the commencement of Phase 2 of the Mbare Traders Market Development Project have advanced significantly, with the authorities finalising plans to establish a temporary holding camp for traders at the nearby Tsiga Grounds to pave the way for construction of a new multi-storey trading complex. The expansive project, which involves building a new high-rise complex with capacity to accommodate 10 000 traders, is part of the Government’s broader urban renewal initiative that seeks to transform Mbare into a thriving economic hub.
Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe told The Sunday Mail that development of the new market follows the completion and commissioning of Phase 1 of the project in April. Redevelopment of the market was prompted by a devastating fire that gutted Mbare Musika in October last year, affecting nearly 5 000 traders.
“Phase 2 of the development shall incorporate the remainder of the original traders, including tenants of stall owners and cooperatives registered with the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development,” said Minister Garwe.
“We believe this process will assist a lot in flushing out space barons who have previously been a menace at Mbare Musika.
“To pave the way for construction of Phase 2 — the main market — the partnership is in the process of establishing a temporary holding camp at Tsiga Grounds, replete with amenities such as water, ablution facilities, security fence.
“Ramming and compaction of the site shall be done to make it suitable for trading.”
Minister Garwe said the Government was presently amending the existing memorandum of understanding with Masimba Holdings, the contractor, to include the development of the Tsiga holding camp.
“Masimba is raring to go and soon you will witness the good works,” he added. “Traders currently occupying the Old Mbare Musika will be moved to Tsiga holding camp to pave the way for construction of the main market, which is expected to be complete within a period of six months.” He said the Government continues to provide oversight on development standards and stall allocations at the newly competed market. Under Phase 1, priority was given to the 4 900 traders directly affected by the 2024 fire, with Phase 2 set to accommodate the remainder.
“Phase 2 of the project is riding on the same partnership and is part of a broader urban renewal project in Mbare, aiming to transform the suburb into a thriving economic hub,” said Minister Garwe.
“It is critical to highlight that Cabinet provides oversight on development standards, as well as allocation of market stalls in the new market.
“Thus, allocation of stalls under Phase 1 of the redevelopment project prioritises the 4 900 traders who fell victim to the devastating fire incident of October 2024.” Minister Garwe said once the Mbare Market redevelopment was complete, focus will shift to the Glen View Area 8 Furniture Market and later to other urban centres.
“The new Mbare Musika is intended to be a national prototype for future market development projects,” he added. “This initiative aligns with His Excellency the President’s national Vision 2030 and Sustainable Development Goals.
“Meanwhile, Mbare Siyaso has experienced yet another devastating inferno that destroyed valuable tools and equipment, including grinders, fridges, drills and plumbing material for at least 13 traders.
“This serves as a learning curve to ensure that all the markets are modernised, including the micro-small and medium enterprises workspaces.”
Online Reporter