BULAWAYO – Bulawayo’s city centre is becoming a health risk as hundreds of illegal vendors many from outside the city are now living and working on the pavements.
These areas have turned into open-air bedrooms, toilets, and kitchens, especially near the popular fresh produce market along Jason Moyo Street between 5th and 6th avenues.
A visit by reporters last week found at least 95 vendors sleeping on pavements, with some admitting they have no homes in Bulawayo. They cook, sell, and even relieve themselves in the same spaces they sleep in.
One female vendor from Gokwe said, “I sleep here because I have nowhere else to stay. My husband sometimes comes too.” Another from Masvingo shared the same challenge.
Locals say a tree nearby has died due to constant urination. A manhole is also reportedly being used as a toilet, creating a strong smell in the area.
Mayor David Coltart confirmed the issue, blaming politically connected “space barons” who illegally rent out vending bays for up to US$250 a month. These funds don’t go to the council, so services like toilets and garbage collection aren’t provided.
Coltart said municipal police can’t arrest offenders and urged the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to step in. He also called on the Town Clerk to work with government officials for a solution.
Michael Ndiweni from the Bulawayo Vendors and Traders Association (BVTA) said poor toilet access has worsened the problem. Some vendors now use alleys as toilets, creating a serious health threat. He also warned that illegal vending areas are now being used for drug dealing and other crimes.
BCC spokesperson Nesisa Mpofu said only 2,331 vendors are officially registered, even though the city has nearly 10,000 vending bays. She said legal vendors must provide ID, fingerprint clearance, proof of residence, and go for medical checks at Khami Clinic if they sell food.
Efforts are ongoing to bring order to the vending sector, but the growing number of illegal vendors continues to stretch the city’s resources and threaten public health.
