Backlash erupts over Ministers’ Kazan trip for Mbare musika redesign
HARARE – A high-powered Zimbabwean delegation’s trip to Kazan, Russia, to study market design standards has sparked widespread criticism, with citizens accusing the government of wasting resources and undermining local expertise.
The delegation, led by Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe, aims to gather insights to remodel Mbare Musika Traders Market, destroyed by fire last year. The team includes four cabinet ministers—Garwe, Monica Mutsvangwa, Zhemu Soda, Health and Child Care minister Douglas Mombeshora—and Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume, along with technical experts.
The visit, however, has triggered a backlash on social media, with Zimbabweans questioning its cost.
“Millions spent to educate and promote science and technological innovations, yet this shows ZERO confidence in our domestic engineers, architects, and designers,” wrote Sholom Takavengwa.
Zvayi Zatta echoed similar sentiments, questioning the expense: “What’s the cost of sending ministers to see a design of a market? They could have enlisted students at HIT or Poly and bought textbooks and instruments with that money.”
Critics also took aim at the composition of the delegation. “It boggles my mind that we have three cabinet ministers sitting in this room in Russia for a “technical exchange” for redesigning Mbare Musika? Monica Mutsvangwa, Daniel Garwe and Dr Mombeshora are not technical resources for this. We need to quit this village mindset. Guys think big!” said mmatigari.
Others, like George Nyandoro, argued the move reflects a lack of confidence in Zimbabwe’s local talent pool. “Serious leadership would have noted that there are many skilled professionals here who could design and build Mbare market. Kungoda kutisekesa nevarungu chete.”
Many called for the government to prioritize local talent and cost-effective solutions. Despite the criticism, the delegation has yet to respond publicly.
