President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting vendors and informal traders, emphasizing their crucial role in Zimbabwe’s economy. In a demonstration of his “open-door policy,” he met representatives of vendors at State House in Harare to discuss the sector’s challenges and explore structured solutions for formalization.
The President clarified that the Government’s efforts to formalize the informal sector should not be seen as a threat but rather as a step towards bringing order, security, and sustainable growth to the sector. He urged vendors to embrace Government’s initiatives to improve working conditions and integrate informal trade into the formal economy.
“The informal sector plays a crucial role in Zimbabwe’s economy, providing livelihoods for millions. However, worrying trends affecting this sector, if left unchecked, could have far-reaching negative consequences. Our attempt to formalize and create decent workspaces should not be seen as a threat but as an effort to organize and uplift the sector,” said President Mnangagwa.
President Mnangagwa called for collaborative dialogue between vendors and the Government, encouraging an open exchange of ideas to improve policies. He expressed hope that this engagement would provide insights into addressing grievances while identifying policy solutions to modernize the sector. To ensure smooth integration, he directed the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works to work with local councils and the private sector to construct market stalls and designated trading spaces, equipped with water and sanitation infrastructure.
“We cannot let disorder take over. My administration is committed to providing accessible and decent workspaces for vendors, along with access to microfinance, training, and streamlined licensing under the ease of doing business reforms,” he added.
While recognizing vendors’ contributions, President Mnangagwa emphasized the need for order and discipline within the informal sector. He warned against illegal activities, such as night vending, and urged vendors to resist criminal elements and drug syndicates from infiltrating their operations.
“We must take ownership of our sector and be responsible citizens for the good of Zimbabwe,” he said.
Local Government Minister Dr. Daniel Garwe echoed the President’s sentiments, noting that Government was concerned about reports of municipal police harassing vendors and was seeking better ways to enforce regulations. Women’s Affairs Minister Monica Mutsvangwa added that vendors had expressed commitment to operating in an orderly manner, while Tuckshop Associations Secretary Lovemore Mudzoki emphasized their willingness to work with the Government rather than engage in disruptive demonstrations.
The meeting underscored the importance of fostering a cooperative relationship between the Government and informal traders to ensure the sector’s growth, sustainability, and contribution to national development. With the informal sector accounting for a significant share of Zimbabwe’s economy, its formalization is set to enhance economic stability, improve working conditions, and support national development goals under Vision 2030.
