Vendors hailed as backbone of informal economy in Workers’ Day message

Dorothy N Sithole

The Patriotic Vendors 4ED National Committee has praised Zimbabwe’s informal traders for their role in sustaining the country’s economy, describing them as the “backbone of our informal economy” in a statement issued to mark International Workers’ Day.

In a message released on Thursday, National Chairperson Esawu Jere extended greetings to vendors, traders and workers across the country, recognising their contribution to livelihoods and economic activity.

The statement highlighted the early-morning routines of vendors, noting their daily efforts to secure stock and set up trading spaces.

“We commend the dedication of vendors who rise before dawn, often by 5am, to place orders, set up stalls, and display their goods,” the statement read.

It further acknowledged the role of informal traders in sustaining supply chains through cross-border trading activities and ensuring the availability of goods in both urban and rural communities.

The committee also emphasised that vendors contribute beyond commerce, citing their participation in community development activities such as clean-up campaigns and national civic initiatives.

“Your labour may be informal, but its dignity is undeniable. It feeds families, funds school fees, and keeps the wheels of commerce turning from Harare to the furthest rural growth points,” the statement said.

The committee said the recognition was part of efforts to formally acknowledge the contribution of the informal sector to national development, particularly as Zimbabwe pursues Vision 2030, aimed at achieving upper-middle-income status.

It urged vendors to maintain discipline, solidarity and commitment in their work.

“May your hands remain strong, your stalls remain full, and your efforts never go unrecognised.”