Story by Yolanda Moyo
AS government accelerates its initiative to relocate informal vendors to designated and regulated trading areas, Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) are emerging as a crucial arrangement to ensure the swift provision of safe, modern, and commercially viable marketplaces.
Recognising the scale and complexity of this undertaking, government is looking at the adoption of PPP as a cornerstone in the swift establishment of modern and safe marketplaces across Zimbabwe.
The initiative aims to transform the landscape of informal trading, moving away from congested and often unsafe street vending to well-equipped and managed market facilities.
“PPP’s are proving to be instrumental in accelerating the development of suitable trading spaces for our vendors. By leveraging the expertise and resources of the private sector, we can establish well-equipped markets with essential amenities much faster than would be possible through solely public funding.
“This collaborative spirit ensures that the relocation process is expedited, minimising disruption to the livelihoods of our vendors while simultaneously creating dignified and safe working environments. These partnerships often bring innovative designs and efficient management practices to the market infrastructure, ultimately benefiting both vendors and consumers,” Acting Urban Councils Association of Zimbabwe president, Councillor Jacob Mafume said.
The government’s commitment to this endeavor aligns with its broader vision of achieving an upper-middle-income society by 2030.
“The government views the formalisation of the informal sector and the provision of safe and conducive working spaces for our vendors as a top priority. Vendors recently met with President Emmerson Mnangagwa and this shows how committed government is in this regard, it is a commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.
“The move to designate specific trading zones aims to address various challenges associated with unregulated vending, including public safety concerns, traffic congestion, and sanitation issues. Vendors are human like everyone and there is a need for municipal police to treat vendors with dignity as they conduct their work,” Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Daniel Garwe
The success of the Mbare traders market serves as a compelling example of how PPPs can effectively deliver quality infrastructure for vendors.
As government forges ahead with the urban renewal and regeneration efforts, the nation is poised to create vibrant urban spaces that empower informal traders, enhance urban aesthetics, and contribute significantly to the national economic agenda.
