The government has officially prohibited the import and sale of second-hand clothing, alongside a crackdown on street and night vending, citing threats to formal businesses, public order, and national security.
Speaking at a meeting with Harare City Council officials on Monday at Town House, Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe said informal trading practices were seriously undermining the operations of registered businesses in the capital.
“The unchecked growth of street and night vending has compromised the viability of formal commerce in Harare,” Garwe said.
He announced that second-hand clothing imports and sales are now banned, and with them, all forms of informal street and night vending.
Government Bans Second-Hand Clothing Imports and Informal Vending
“This is a directive. Take note, especially those leading these street operations,” Garwe warned.
Garwe expressed concern that illegal drugs and other illicit activities were being conducted under the guise of night vending, creating risks to health, security, and the economy.
He urged the Harare City Council to coordinate enforcement efforts with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), emphasizing the need for firm but humane implementation.
“There’s no need for brutality during enforcement. Work with vendor associations to educate and engage before enforcing,” he advised.
In addition to addressing illegal vending, the Minister criticized the worsening traffic congestion in the city, calling on council officials to reinforce municipal by-laws to restore order.
“The current traffic situation is chaotic. Strengthen and enforce by-laws to bring back discipline to our roads,” he said.
Garwe stressed that while enforcement must be carried out decisively, it should also be mindful of citizens’ rights and livelihoods.
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