ZVISHAVANE – The Minister of State for Midlands Provincial Affairs, Owen Ncube last week officially opened a new council-owned flea market built reportedly to the tune of US$200 000.
Zvishavane Town Council has set for itself targets to ensure all informal traders are moved from the streets to the new market which can house up to 400 informal traders.
Speaking at the occasion, Ncube said local authorities should provide vendors with appropriate facilities in order to put an end to lawless trading on the streets.
“I wish to call upon all local authorities in the province facing the challenge of vending to take practical measures to respond to the situation in a positive manner as demonstrated by Zvishavane Town Council.
“Instead of embarking on fruitless attempts to chase away vendors from the streets and other places, councils must avail appropriate facilities at suitable sites,” said Ncube.
Zvishavane town secretary, Tinoda Mukutu said the new flea market was built in response to President Emmerson Mnangagwa`s programme to improve economic conditions in the first100 days of his assuming office.
“Our vision is to become a municipality by 2019. In order for us to achieve this vision, we have embarked on a number of projects using our resources. We also have partnerships with companies like Mimosa for the refurbishment of Mandava Stadium into a state-of-the-art stadium.
“Other projects that are ongoing include the refurbishment of the town’s swimming pool, installation and repairing of street lights, treatment of water and sewer upgrading, surfacing of roads and many more,” said Mukutu.local
