By Lastword Musekiwa
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere says government has put in place a response and recovery plan under the Building Back Better programme as authorities seek to rebuild Mbare Traders Market.
Addressing a post Cabinet media briefing in Harare yesterday, Minister Muswere said: “The Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Daniel Garwe updated Cabinet on Mbare Traders Market Reconstruction.
“As part of the reorganisation of the Mbare Musika Traders Market following the declaration of a State of Disaster by His Excellency the President on 14 October, 2024 in the aftermath of the Mbare Fire Disaster, government has put in place a response and recovery plan under the Building Back Better programme.”
The Minister added that government has put in place various measures to assist in the reconstruction of the market.
“The Government will intervene through a number of initiatives which include the following:
– provision of immediate relief in the form of livelihood support (safety nets) such as cash transfers, payment of school fees and psycho-social support and child protection;
– immediate resuscitation of businesses through loans, grants and other stimulus packages to assist traders with restocking of goods;
– provision of alternative and conducive workspace-the Harare City Council has offered the open space opposite Carter House as an alternative while reconstruction is taking place;
– economic empowerment programmes that support stakeholders in rebuilding their businesses and promoting economic stability; and
– upgrading market infrastructure to densification using two or three storey buildings and enhancing emergency response systems to prevent future fire disasters (long term).