Harare (New Ziana) – President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Tuesday declared the fire that destroyed the Mbare Traders’ Market last a state of disaster, paving way for government intervention.

The fire incident affected more than 4 000 traders.

The fire destroyed wares worth millions of dollars, leaving many traders facing bankruptcy. Much of the market was razed to the ground in the inferno.

In a statement, the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe said President Mnangagwa’s declaration of a state of disaster will assist the government to raise funds to rebuild the informal market.

“His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa has, in terms of Section 27(1) of the Civil Protection Act [Chapter 10:06], declared a State of Disaster following a destructive fire at the Mbare Traders Market on 8th October 2024.

“The unfortunate inferno, which razed down the whole retail section and parts of the wholesale market, affected over 4 000 traders whose livelihoods have been negatively impacted,” he said.

Garwe confirmed that the Government was now gathering resources to assist the affected Mbare traders.

“The declaration will thus assist in mobilising necessary resources, in cash and kind, to support rebuilding of the market as well as assist affected entrepreneurs resuscitate their businesses. The nation is advised that the Government in collaboration with the private sector and other stakeholders, is working flat out to build back better,” he said.

New Ziana