The government’s vendor verification exercise for the temporary Mbare Musika market is nearing completion, ensuring that genuine beneficiaries receive fair opportunities to rebuild their businesses in a transparent and structured manner.
With the first batch of traders set to occupy the newly constructed facility, authorities have reaffirmed their dedication to modernizing key commercial spaces in line with national development goals, particularly Vision 2030.
Minister of Information, Publicity, and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Jenfan Muswere, highlighted the importance of the agricultural value chain in Zimbabwe’s economy, emphasizing that the revitalized market will serve as a hub for small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) engaged in farming and trade.
He underscored how the transformation of Mbare Musika aligns with land reform successes, facilitating economic empowerment by enhancing production, distribution, and marketing infrastructure. Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Senator Monica Mutsvangwa, assured traders of a fair allocation process, warning against corrupt practices and urging unity in the modernization effort.
Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that no individual or group would be allowed to manipulate the process for personal gain, with strict measures in place to prevent fraudulent allocation of trading spaces. Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Senator Charles Tavengwa, expressed confidence in the project’s impact, praising the government’s commitment to supporting SMEs and informal traders.
Beneficiaries welcomed the initiative, describing the modernized market as a much-needed boost for their businesses, particularly after the devastating fire last year. Vendors expressed gratitude for the shelter, upgraded facilities, and assurance of fairness in stall allocation, with hopes that additional financial support, such as loans, will further strengthen their enterprises. Masimba Holdings CEO, Mr. Fungai Matahwa, confirmed that construction is nearly complete, with 99% of the structure finalized, covering 7,000 square meters to accommodate up to 2,000 traders.
This development marks a significant step in Zimbabwe’s broader strategy to create inclusive economic opportunities, demonstrating that under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s leadership, national development remains an unstoppable force towards an upper-middle-income society by 2030.
