Typhoid forces Mereki Shut Down

The Harare City Council has shut down one of Harare's most popular drive-in joints, kwaMereki, citing control of the typhoid outbreak in the city, NewsDay reports.

Mereki in Warren Park D, was yesterday shut down by police and Harare municipal police as the fight against the typhoid outbreak escalates.

Mereki is a favourite venue for revellers from all walks of life who converge there for drinks and barbecues.

The place has been a source of livelihood for an estimated 300 people, undertaking various businesses, including car washing and general vending.

Yesterday all the food stalls like paMai George, Mai Gonyeti and Mai Sibanda, were deserted following the police crackdown.

Smouldering smoke remained from the braai stands and motorists coming for their usual lunches said they were surprised and disappointed to find their favourite joint deserted.

In the aftermath of the raid, the vendors were salvaging the little they could, contemplating their future.
Eyewitnesses said the vendors fought running battles with municipal police who confiscated their wares, including cooking utensils and foodstuffs.

Mereki does not have proper sanitary facilities.

Reports alleges that Whitehouse and Pahuku have not been raided.