Harare, Zimbabwe – In a bold move to address the increasing issue of illegal vending, the City of Harare, in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, is set to launch a joint operation aimed at eliminating street vending in the capital.
The operation, which is expected to begin tomorrow night, marks the commencement of a focused campaign to restore order on Harare’s streets and ensure the proper regulation of vending activities.
The initiative was announced by Mr. Addmore Nhekairo, the City of Harare’s Director of Housing and Community Services, during the launch of a revenue collection blitz yesterday. Mr. Nhekairo emphasized the gravity of the situation, describing illegal vending as a “serious issue” that needs urgent attention.
“This is a matter that will be tackled head-on by both the City Council and the central Government,” said Mr. Nhekairo. “The joint operation will ensure that vending activities that violate the city’s regulations are effectively dealt with.”
Illegal vending has become a pervasive problem in Harare, with vendors occupying streets, pavements, and public spaces, often obstructing pedestrian traffic, contributing to environmental degradation, and causing disruptions to city operations. The move to eliminate illegal vending is part of a broader strategy to enhance urban planning, improve hygiene standards, and create a more conducive environment for both residents and businesses in the capital.
The City of Harare, together with the central Government, aims to offer an alternative framework for vending that aligns with urban development goals while addressing the concerns of street vendors who have often cited a lack of formal market spaces as a primary challenge. The new operation will include not only enforcement measures but also initiatives to guide and support vendors to transition into regulated vending zones, ensuring that the livelihoods of many individuals are not unduly disrupted.
In the coming days, the city expects a visible shift in the streets of Harare, with authorities taking strong action against those who flout vending regulations. This includes removing goods, dismantling makeshift stalls, and issuing penalties to offenders.
While the operation may face resistance from some vendors, the City of Harare and the central Government have underscored the importance of restoring order in the city for the benefit of all its inhabitants. Both authorities have vowed to continue working together to create a vibrant, cleaner, and more organized urban environment.
The collaboration between the City of Harare and central Government is seen as a crucial step towards sustainable urban management and economic growth. Harare residents and businesses alike are urged to support the initiative, as the capital embarks on a new chapter of urban renewal.
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