Critics assail Harare vendor ban as an attack on the poor

Zimbabwe authorities ordered Harare City Council to remove all street vendors from the central business district. Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe addressed city councillors on Monday about the comprehensive ban. The directive also reinforces existing prohibitions on importing and selling second-hand clothing across the nation. Garwe argued that nighttime street trading facilitates drug trafficking and undermines legitimate businesses that pay taxes and rent. He instructed municipal officials to collaborate with police forces for vendor removal operations.

Former opposition politician Fadzayi Mahere criticized the government's approach as targeting impoverished citizens rather than addressing economic problems. She compared the situation to previous failed eviction campaigns like Operation Murambatsvina. Elizabeth Valerio, a former presidential candidate, warned that sudden restrictions without alternative employment opportunities would increase poverty. Both women argued that street vending represents desperate survival attempts rather than criminal behavior. They called for gradual integration policies and skills development programs before criminalizing informal traders.

Minister Garwe defended privatization initiatives for waste collection and water services during the same meeting. Mayor Jacob Mafume announced progress on water meter installations with Chinese equipment arriving this year.