Govt orders crackdown on Harare vendors

The government declared illegal vending in Harare's central business district no longer acceptable, warning of arrests for vendors who ignore orders to move to designated markets. Local Government minister Daniel Garwe issued the ultimatum on Monday, citing a deterioration of urban order and growing complaints from residents and businesses. Authorities have set a September 9 deadline for compliance, after which enforcement operations will commence to clear undesignated vending spots. The crackdown follows repeated eviction notices and complaints about street trading clogging pavements and causing hygiene and security issues in the capital. Officials have directed vendors to use designated vending bays and markets outside the city center, insisting that the era of illegal vending is over while the government warns that those who defy the orders will face immediate arrest.