By Own Correspondent

A TOTAL of 4 695 traders were directly affected when a fire engulfed Mbare Musika market place recently, with the tragedy having a negative bearing on the livelihoods of 23 000 people.

Information, Media and Broadcasting Services minister Jenfan Muswere told journalists during a post-Cabinet media briefing yesterday that 1 511 stall operators and 3 184 lessees were directly affected.

Muswere said authorities have cobbled up a response plan to assist the traders to restock that includes loans, grants and other stimulus packages.

“Provision of immediate relief in the form of livelihood support (safety nets) such as cash transfers, payment of school fees and psycho-social support and child protection,” he said.

“Immediate resuscitation of businesses through loans, grants and other stimulus packages to assist traders with restocking of goods; provision of alternative and conducive workspace-the Harare City Council has offered the open space opposite Carter House as an alternative while reconstruction is taking place.

“Economic empowerment programmes that support stakeholders in rebuilding their businesses and promoting economic stability; and upgrading market infrastructure to densification using two or three-storey buildings and enhancing emergency response systems to prevent future fire disasters (long term).”

The Zimbabwe Chamber of Informal Economy Associations (ZCIEA), expressed solidarity with Market Traders Affected by Fire Incident at Mbare Musika

In a statement the association called for safeguards and social protection for the informal economy.

“ZCIEA stands in solidarity with almost 5000 market traders who tragically lost their goods and wares in a fire incident at Retail market in Mbare on the night of October 8, 2024. As an organization committed to supporting and advocating for the rights of informal economy workers and traders, ZCIEA calls for urgent support and assistance to be provided to the affected market traders. We urge relevant authorities and stakeholders to come together to provide relief and ensure that those affected receive the necessary help to recover from this setback,” said ZCIEA.

The association bemoaned tragic recurrences within the informal economy which have left many families in abject poverty.

“The devastating fire at Mbare Musika has resulted in significant losses for many hardworking traders who rely on their businesses to support themselves and their families. This is part of the vulnerability that traders sometimes face. Over the past years, it has been experienced at Glen View Furniture Home Industry. We hope that the Government and city authorities will prioritize constructing safe markets for traders, as their workplaces are sources of livelihood. ZCIEA extends its heartfelt sympathies to all those affected by this unfortunate event,” reads the statement.