A lot of us were sceptical when the announcement was made, but it seems the long-awaited reconstruction of Mbare Musika Retail Market which was gutted by fire back in October, is finally set to begin. When we visited Mbare today we noticed that technically, work on the upgraded market has already started. The government, in collaboration with the City of Harare, has been preparing a temporary location for vendors opposite Carter House. Retailers will need to relocate to this site before the actual construction of the market can commence. The government has stated that the main reconstruction will take approximately seven months.

Vendors to be temporarily relocated

One hurdle that has to be cleared before work can begin on the main site is the relocation of about 3000 vendors that currently call the Retail Market home. The government has indicated that the temporary relocation is an essential step in ensuring safety and continuity during the reconstruction process. The new site, conveniently located across the road from the current market, is expected to accommodate vendors until the upgraded facility is completed.

During his recent budget presentation, Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube shared the vision for the project:

“Following the fire outbreak that completely destroyed Mbare Musika, the government, in partnership with the private sector through a PPP arrangement, has started the reconstruction process of a modern market facility, capable of accommodating at least 10,000 SME traders.

The reconstruction aims to provide a safer and more organised environment for vendors while revitalising the area as a thriving commercial hub.”

Vendor Reactions

As expected, the announcement that vendors will have to move temporarily has drawn mixed reactions from the vendors themselves. Some of the vendors we spoke to were relieved to see the government acting swiftly to address the challenges caused by the fire. For many, operating at the current site since the fire has been difficult, with poor conditions, low customer traffic, and limited resources to rebuild their stalls.

“We have been struggling ever since the fire. At least this shows the government cares. Moving is not ideal, but it gives us hope that things will get better,” said one vendor who sells vegetables and fruits.

For most vendors, the focus has been on restocking goods rather than rebuilding stalls. The fire destroyed not just their trading spaces but also their stock and savings, leaving many with little to start over with.

However, not all vendors are happy about the move. Mbare Musika is well known for its highly coveted vending spots, and the relocation has raised concerns among some traders about losing their prime locations. Allegations of corruption in the allocation of stalls in the past have further fuelled these worries.

“We fear losing our spots. A good location here can make or break your business. If I lose my stall in this process, I may not recover,” said another vendor, voicing apprehensions that many share.

Concerns have also been raised about the foot traffic at the temporary site, as vendors rely heavily on customer volumes to sustain their businesses.

A Safer, Modern Market

Challenges aside, the reconstruction of Mbare Musika is a welcome development. The new market is set to feature modern facilities, including improved sanitation, secure trading spaces, and much-needed fire safety systems to prevent future disasters. The upgrades will not only enhance the market’s functionality but also its aesthetic appeal, making it a better experience for both vendors and customers.

Authorities have assured vendors that the relocation will be handled fairly, with measures in place to protect current stall allocations and ensure that all traders are accommodated at the new facility once it is completed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is Mbare Musika being reconstructed? The market was destroyed by fire back in October. There were already concerns about the market before this but the fire was the final straw. Right now traders are using Gazebo tents and other temporary makeshift stalls made from salvaged wood and plastics.

Where will vendors operate during construction? Vendors will move to a temporary site located opposite Carter House, just across the road from the current market. The market is opposite Mai Musodzi Hall and in between Tagarika Flats.

How long will the reconstruction take?

The government estimates that the project will take approximately seven months to complete. Vendors could return to the upgraded market by mid-2025.

What improvements will the new market have?

The new facility will include modern stalls, improved sanitation, better security, and fire safety systems. It will also have the capacity to accommodate at least 10,000 vendors.

Will vendors get their current spots back after the reconstruction?

There is no word on this but authorities have assured vendors that the process to allocate new stalls both at the temporary site and when the final market is complete, will be fair and transparent.

See current Mbare Musika Prices