Garwe tells councils to enforce vending ban

Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe has urged councils across Mashonaland West province to ban illegal street vendors, with a particular focus on traders selling second-hand clothes.

The directive came during a meeting on Friday with senior officials and councillors from all 14 local authorities in the province, held at Chinhoyi Showgrounds. Minister Garwe cited public health concerns, warning that the sale of second-hand garments could contribute to the spread of bedbugs.

He further emphasized that unregulated vending affects the cleanliness and aesthetic appeal of public spaces, adding that the ban aims to reduce litter in cities, towns, and growth points across the province.

At the same time, Garwe advised councils to implement the ban carefully, urging them not to harass vendors. He called for a gradual approach that includes providing viable alternative vending spaces for those whose operations would be affected by the new measures.