The Mbare Traders’ Market, recently devastated by a fire, is set to be reconstructed with the support of a prominent engineering, construction, and development firm. This partnership aims to facilitate the rebuilding efforts, as announced by Dr. Jenfan Muswere, the Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, during a Post Cabinet briefing.
Dr. Muswere highlighted that the fire impacted 4,695 traders and resulted in significant daily income losses. In response, President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared a State of Disaster at the market to enable effective measures for recovery.
He pointed out that similar fire incidents have occurred in other markets throughout Harare, often attributed to the use of flammable materials and inadequate fire prevention systems. The Minister also noted that the Harare City Council lacks the resources to tackle these issues effectively.
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To address this, the government is promoting private sector involvement in the reconstruction efforts. Cabinet has approved the engagement of a leading firm to assist in rebuilding the Mbare Traders’ Market using a Design, Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Finance (DEPC+F) model. This approach is expected to ensure the rapid completion of high-quality facilities, allowing traders to return to a safer and more organized environment that encourages formal operations and tax compliance.
Dr. Muswere mentioned that this model will also be applied to improve other markets across the nation. Additionally, the government plans to provide immediate livelihood and social support to help the affected traders cope with their current challenges, while also focusing on long-term sustainability and resilience strategies within the disaster management framework.
