Informal traders in Harare are encouraging the City Council to examine newly established by-laws, advocating for legislation that respect the economic challenges driving many into hawking for survival.
The Harare City Council recently passed bylaws that forbid pushing pushcarts, or “zvingoro,” in unofficial trading areas like Magaba, Mupedzanhamo, and the Mbare Musika bus stop. Additionally, the bylaws prohibit vending in the CBD without a valid permit or lease agreement.
Samuel Wadzai, Executive Director of the Vendors Initiative for Social and Economic Transformation (VISET), highlighted concerns over the adverse impact of these regulations on informal traders, particularly amidst the current economic scenario. He underlined the necessity for humanitarian by-laws that match with the realities experienced by ordinary citizens.
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Wadzai went on to say that many people who depend on vending for a living will be negatively impacted by the proposed measures, and he suggested that stakeholders work together to create more equal policies.
Wisborn Malaya, speaking for informal traders, expressed disapproval over the new by-laws’ lack of prior consultation with relevant parties. In order to encourage orderliness and make council oversight easier, he supported the creation of designated trading zones and a zoning system.
Malaya called for sensible regulation as opposed to punitive measures, stressing the value of vending as a source of employment and a means of distributing food.
In addition to vending restrictions, the Harare City Council also prohibited “street” butcheries and excessive noise in the CBD. These restrictions underline the continuous efforts to control informal activities in metropolitan areas.
