Mnangagwa’s State of Disaster Declaration Sparks Urgency for Mbare Market Rebuild

The fire that ravaged Mbare Traders Market has left over 4,000 traders in a state of uncertainty. With the market’s retail section entirely destroyed, many are left questioning how they will move forward.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s declaration of a State of Disaster marks a crucial moment. It’s an acknowledgment of the widespread impact this fire has had not only on the traders but also on the broader community. Mbare Market is not just a marketplace. It’s a vital pillar of Zimbabwe’s informal economy, where 90% of the population earns a living.

The government’s plan to mobilize resources in collaboration with the private sector is promising. However, there are deeper concerns. What does it mean to “build back better?” Will rebuilding the market restore the livelihoods of the affected traders? Or are there broader issues that need to be addressed?

While the government focuses on infrastructure, the recovery effort must also prioritize human capital. These traders have not just lost their stalls; they’ve lost their income streams, their ability to support families, and their day-to-day security. A comprehensive support package is essential, including financial aid, business recovery tools, and psychological support.

The resilience of the affected traders is undeniable, but they cannot rebuild alone. Without strategic and immediate action, this disaster could spiral into a wider economic problem, affecting not just Mbare but all of Zimbabwe. The fire highlights vulnerabilities in market infrastructure, prompting urgent discussions about safety measures and emergency preparedness.

Looking beyond the rebuilding phase, it’s critical that the market’s new design integrates safety features. Installing fire detection systems, enforcing fire prevention training for traders, and modernizing the facilities will ensure that future disasters can be minimized. Mnangagwa’s declaration must serve as more than a formality; it should be a blueprint for disaster management across the country.

At the heart of this crisis is the informal economy, a sector that has long been the backbone of Zimbabwe’s workforce. It’s clear that the future of the country’s economy depends on the resilience of these markets. Ensuring that Mbare is rebuilt swiftly and efficiently will set the tone for Zimbabwe’s overall recovery.

However, it’s not just about physical reconstruction. The government and private stakeholders need to show a genuine commitment to helping traders rebuild their lives. Mental health services, business mentorship programs, and long-term economic planning are as important as bricks and mortar.

If the cause of the fire is found to be preventable, accountability should follow. This event should serve as a turning point, prompting market authorities nationwide to take proactive measures to safeguard traders’ livelihoods. The focus should now be on not just recovering from the disaster but preventing future ones.

For Mbare to rise stronger from the ashes, both public and private sectors must come together. Mnangagwa’s declaration is only the first step in a long road to recovery, but with careful planning, community involvement, and unwavering support, Mbare could emerge as a symbol of resilience and growth for Zimbabwe.

As the rebuilding process unfolds, it will be essential to keep the needs of the traders front and center. Zimbabwe’s economic stability hinges on the recovery of markets like Mbare. The nation is watching, and the stakes could not be higher.

The Zim Bulletin