Harare,  (New Ziana) – President Emmerson Mnangagwa said on Wednesday that his administration will remain committed to addressing the needs of all citizens, including informal traders.

He was speaking at an interface meeting with vendor representatives at State House, where he expressed concern over certain negative practices by informal traders who operate from undesignated areas.

“As we are all aware, the informal sector plays a crucial role in Zimbabwe’s economy, providing livelihoods for millions of citizens. However, there have been some worrisome trends affecting the sector that, if left unchecked, will have dire ripple effects on our country and overshadow the important role of this critical sector,” said President Mnangagwa.

He added: “An attempt by the government to formalize your sector and create decent workspaces should never be seen by vendors and the informal sector as a direct threat to your survival.”

The interface follows a directive earlier this month by the Ministry of Local Government, which instructed informal vendors to vacate unregulated areas and cease night trading.

However, the vendors have refused to stop street trading. President Mnangagwa urged vendors not to allow the sector to be abused by criminal elements, who have been threatening authorities with illegal protests.

“I urge you as vendors to be alert and vigilant. Never allow the abuse of your sector by criminal elements and drug kingpins,” he said.

He assured the traders that his administration is committed to facilitating the establishment of convenient and accessible decent workspaces for vendors.

“It is important that you undertake your trade in an orderly manner, respecting those who operate around you and the broader environment and community where you work. We must have order, and as responsible citizens, we should never gloss over this matter. We must be honest that we cannot let the state of our country degenerate right under our eyes,” said President Mnangagwa.

New Ziana