Bulawayo, (New Ziana)-In response to the recent government directive for all local authorities to clear vendors from undesignated areas, the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) has embarked on an exercise to relocate all traders operating along 5th Avenue to the Bhaktas 2 Site, situated along Lobengula Street and 2nd Avenue.
Last week, Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe, who was accompanied by other Cabinet Ministers, highlighted the growing concern over night vending, which he said has become a hotspot for illegal activities, including drug dealing.
“The Government has noted with great concern the proliferation of illegal vendors in Central Business Districts and surrounding areas across the country, particularly the rise of night vendors. This has led to serious health, safety, and security challenges,” he said then.
In Bulawayo, the situation has become particularly dire, with vendors occupying shop pavements and obstructing public access, making it difficult for residents to carry out their daily activities.
Town clerk Christopher Dube announced that the first 600 trading bays at Bhaktas 2 Site will be allocated to legally operating traders from 5th Avenue. An additional 460 bays will be reserved for traders previously assigned to Bhaktas who have met all licensing and rental requirements.
“The City of Bulawayo wishes to inform the public and all micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) stakeholders that all traders currently operating at 5th Avenue will be relocated to the Bhaktas 2 Site,” said.
Dube urged all affected traders to visit the City of Bulawayo Vending Offices at the former Dugmore Clinic Offices along Basch Street and 6th Avenue to identify their designated bay numbers at the new site.
“We urge all affected traders to cooperate with the authorities during this transition period to ensure a smooth relocation process. Your understanding and compliance with the Council’s decision are greatly appreciated,” he added.
He warned push cart operators, saying that they will no longer be permitted in parts of the Central Business District (CBD) bounded by 3rd Avenue, Lobengula Street, 12th Avenue, and Robert Mugabe Way, adding violators will be fined and their carts impounded.
The government has stressed that the lack of regulation and oversight in these areas has allowed criminal elements to thrive, undermining community safety and eroding public trust in law enforcement.
Under the new measures, local authorities are mandated to enforce strict regulations requiring all traders to hold valid licenses and operate only in designated areas equipped with adequate sanitary facilities.
The move is aimed at restoring order, enhancing public safety, and creating a more conducive environment for both businesses and residents.
New Ziana
