Bulawayo municipal police ordered not to harass vendors

The Bulawayo City Council (BCC) says it will not chase away vendors from the streets but has urged them to ensure their places are kept clean to prevent the spread of diseases.

Bulawayo Mayor, Councillor Martin Moyo said the local authority is a pro-poor council and will not prioritise the beauty of the city at the expense of people.

He was addressing members of the Zimbabwe Chamber of Informal Economy Association (ZCIEA) at praise and worship centre in the city.

"Council has been lethargic in providing vending space in the city but is currently seized with the agenda of ensuring that more space is made available. The council is also looking at reducing the charges for operating in the city as the current US$14 per month is exorbitant," said Moyo.

Vendors face many challenges and council must be lenient with them, said the President of the Bulawayo Chapter of the ZCIEA, Mrs Musawenkosi Nyoni.    

Municipal police have been ordered not to harass vendors according to the mayor.