Kwekwe human rights defender condemns crackdown against vendors

By Staff Repoter

Kwekwe human rights defender Makesure Bambo Choga, has piled pressure on government over crackdown of vendors.

He says informal traders must be allowed to eke a living and escape the multi layered political and social economic challenges.

“I strongly condemn the actions of the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Hon. Daniel Garwe, regarding the removal of vendors from town central business districts (CBDs), especially in Zimbabwe’s capital city, Harare,” he said.

“Zimbabweans are already facing serious economic challenges, with many people struggling to find formal employment to survive.”

Choga asserts removing vendors from the CBDs without providing alternative opportunities for them to earn a living will only make the situation worse.

“Many vendors are not in the streets because they want to break the law. They are trying to survive and support their families,” he reiterated.

” Some have children to send to school, food to buy and other basic needs to meet.”

Choga said instead of simply chasing people away from their sources of income, the Government should focus on creating employment opportunities and supporting small businesses.

“If the Government believes that street vending is causing problems in CBDs, it should provide safe, legal and affordable vending spaces where citizens can conduct their businesses.

“I therefore call upon Hon. Daniel Garwe and the Government of Zimbabwe to listen to the suffering of ordinary citizens. The Government should create jobs and economic opportunities rather than removing people from the little businesses that are helping them survive.”

He urged Garwe to engage vendors, local authorities and other stakeholders and find a solution that protects both the dignity of citizens and the cleanliness and order of cities.

“Citizens have a right to earn a living and support their families. Development should not leave ordinary people behind,” said Choga.