Vendors in Bulawayo’s central business district (CBD) continued their operations yesterday, defying the local authority’s directive to relocate to designated vending areas.
Despite the directive, council officials were not present to enforce the relocation, allowing vendors to proceed with business as usual.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Bulawayo Town Clerk Christopher Dube announced that all traders operating along 5th Avenue were required to move to Bhakta’s 2 Site, located at Lobengula Street and 2nd Avenue.
However, by 6 AM, vendors had already set up their stalls along 5th Avenue and nearby pavements, remaining vigilant for any municipal police presence. Pushcart operators also continued ferrying goods across the city.
Some vendors expressed willingness to relocate if the process was well-organized, while others raised concerns about the financial burden of moving and re-establishing their businesses. Some remained defiant, citing significant investments made in their current locations.
The relocation order has left many vendors anxious about their future, fearing a loss of customers.
“I understand the council’s position, but they must consider that many of us rely on this space to sustain our families,” said Miss Nomalanga Maphosa. “Many of us are widows or caregivers, and this business is our only source of income.”
Another vendor, speaking on condition of anonymity, criticized the council for failing to plan adequately. “We have been moved around too many times. We have even lost money to people claiming to secure spaces for us. The council is aware of these issues, yet nothing is done,” the vendor alleged.
Vendors’ representative, Mr. Tendai Charuka, stated that relocation would be acceptable if the council provided proper facilities, including sheds and ablution blocks.
“If the move is implemented fairly, vendors will comply. However, many have invested heavily in this location, and sudden relocation will be a major setback,” Charuka said. “If we must move, it should be done in a peaceful and organized manner.”
Charuka also accused the local authority of misinterpreting a directive by Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe, who had specifically addressed night vending.
“The minister highlighted concerns about unregulated night vending and its impact on cities. However, what Bulawayo City Council is attempting is unfair,” he said.
In line with a government directive to regulate informal trading, the council has also banned pushcarts from the CBD, citing concerns over illegal vending, public safety violations, and business disruptions.
Efforts to obtain a comment from Bulawayo City Council’s corporate communications manager, Mrs. Nesisa Mpofu, were unsuccessful, as her phone remained unanswered.
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