Just a week after a devastating fire razed the Mbare Musika retail market to the ground, traders have already resumed business, showcasing the resilience of Harare’s informal sector. The fire, which occurred last Tuesday evening, destroyed countless stalls and goods, leaving many vendors in dire straits. However, the spirit of Mbare remains unbroken, as evidenced by the bustling activity we witnessed during our recent visit.

The Aftermath and Quick Recovery

When we arrived at Mbare Retail market for our usual survey, we were greeted by a scene of both destruction and determination. Most retailers were operating under makeshift shelters – gazebo tents and giant umbrellas – as protection against the blistering sun, which was already intense by 9 am. Some vendors were in the process of rebuilding their stalls, a testament to their resolve to get back on their feet.

The fire’s rapid spread was attributed to the highly combustible materials used in the construction of many stalls, including wooden posts and black plastic roofing. The situation was exacerbated by the flammable nature of many goods, such as dried tobacco, kapenta, and poly-cotton uniforms.

Salvaging and Starting Anew

In the days following the fire, vendors spent their time sifting through the ashes, trying to salvage whatever they could. Those selling metal items like cow bells and bolts were relatively fortunate; they only needed to clean and repaint their wares. However, vendors dealing in plastic goods faced a total loss, forcing them to start from scratch.

Familiar Faces in Familiar Places

Interestingly, most vendors have returned to their former spots, relying on memory and familiarity to reestablish their businesses. This organic reorganization demonstrates the strong sense of community and established networks within the market. However, the long-term plan for the market’s layout and structure remains unclear.

Rebuilding: Same Old or Something New?

Some vendors have already begun reconstructing stalls using the same black plastic material, raising concerns about future fire risks. This scenario is reminiscent of the Glen View Area 8 furniture market, which has experienced multiple fires yet continues to rebuild with similar hazardous materials.

The proximity of Mbare to the city centre and the recently renovated Rufaro Stadium has caught the attention of government officials. There’s talk of rebuilding “something better,” but concrete plans are yet to materialize. Some officials have even proposed formally operated stalls with electronic payment systems and VAT-paying vendors.

While the government’s desire to expand its tax base is understandable, given the shrinking formal economy, such proposals may face significant challenges. The success of Mbare’s retailers largely stems from their USD-only, tax-free operations. Introducing formal structures and taxation could drive vendors to nearby streets, potentially undercutting any new formal businesses within the market.

Stock Levels and Recovery Progress

Our survey revealed that most vendors are operating with significantly reduced stock levels compared to pre-fire conditions. Those selling easily reorderable items like kapenta, beans, and other dried goods seemed to have recovered more quickly. Vendors of dried flue-cured tobacco scrap also appeared to be bouncing back.

Notably absent were school uniform vendors, who typically source their stock from South Africa. The mopane worm (madora) sellers, already affected by climate change-induced shortages, were further set back by the fire. Solar panel and electronics vendors also continue to grapple with substantial losses.

Adapting to New Realities

Some vendors have been forced to pivot their businesses due to a lack of capital to restock their previous inventories. This shift highlights the adaptability of Mbare’s traders, even in the face of significant setbacks.

Government Response and Future Plans

Local Government and Public Works Minister Winston Chitando, who visited the site, expressed the government’s commitment to rebuilding the market. He emphasized the need for proper planning and the inclusion of modern facilities in the reconstruction process.

Minister Chitando indicated that a technical team would be deployed to assess the situation and develop a comprehensive plan. He stressed the importance of maintaining Mbare’s character while improving its infrastructure and safety measures.

Community Spirit and Support

The quick recovery of the market is not just a result of individual efforts. The Mbare community has shown remarkable solidarity, with many people offering support to affected vendors. This community spirit has been crucial in helping traders get back on their feet so quickly.

Local residents praised the vendors’ resilience, noting how quickly they had cleared the debris and resumed trading. They emphasized the importance of the market to the local economy and the livelihoods of many families in the area.

Challenges Ahead

While the immediate response has been impressive, significant challenges remain. Many vendors are operating with severely depleted capital, making it difficult to restock to previous levels. The lack of proper infrastructure also leaves them vulnerable to weather conditions and potential future fires.

Moreover, the uncertainty surrounding the government’s long-term plans for the area creates additional stress for vendors. There’s a palpable tension between the desire for improved facilities and the fear of over-regulation that could threaten their livelihoods.

A resilient people

As Mbare Musika springs back to life, it serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and adaptability of Zimbabwe’s informal sector. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining the long-term future of this vital economic hub.

While the government’s intentions to improve the market are commendable, it’s essential that any plans take into account the unique dynamics that have made Mbare successful. Balancing modernization with the preservation of the market’s character and economic model will be a delicate but necessary task.

For now, the vendors of Mbare continue to do what they do best – adapt, survive, and serve their community. As the smell of smoke fades and new structures rise, the spirit of Mbare Musika remains undiminished, a testament to the indomitable spirit of Harare’s traders.

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