Guard’s Alleged Role in Mbare Musika Fire Sparks Debate Over Accountability

A security guard has been taken to court for allegedly causing a devastating fire at Harare’s Mbare Musika retail market, raising critical questions about responsibility and negligence. Action Chakauya, 35, faces charges for reportedly lighting the fire that resulted in substantial losses for traders, whose livelihoods were severely impacted.

The magnitude of the damages, estimated to exceed US$5 million, highlights not only the financial setback but also the potential lapses in safety protocols within the vicinity.

Chakauya, who resides in Majubheki Flats, was performing his duties at a nearby property when the incident occurred. His actions, described as “negligent” by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), unfolded on the evening of October 8, 2024, with devastating consequences.

The fire quickly spread from the entrance area, engulfing the entire market, reducing decades-old businesses to ash and debris. Such incidents shed light on the systemic vulnerabilities in maintaining safety standards in critical commercial zones.

The loss has left traders grappling not only with the immediate destruction of goods but also with a long-term economic struggle. For many, Mbare Musika is more than just a marketplace—it is the backbone of their families’ survival.

Now, with the market obliterated, affected vendors face a grim reality of starting over from scratch. This tragedy has prompted renewed calls for enhanced security measures, thorough training of security personnel, and a reassessment of accountability protocols in public spaces.

The case has now moved to court, where traders, represented by Tendayi Manyara, seek justice and answers. As it stands, Action Chakauya was remanded in custody, pending a bail hearing. His defense, however, raises the question of whether this incident could have been prevented if better safety measures were in place. Reports indicate that other security guards at the site witnessed Chakauya’s fire-lighting attempt, but seemingly did not intervene until it was too late.

This has fueled a broader conversation about shared responsibility in preventing such disasters. Could bystanders have acted sooner? Should there have been an emergency response mechanism readily available at the market? These questions, though uncomfortable, are vital as the community looks to rebuild. Fire safety, often overlooked in informal markets and high-density commercial areas, needs to be prioritized through both policy and practice.

Mbare Musika, a historical trading hub in Harare, is frequented by thousands daily. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere, diversity of wares, and its critical role in Zimbabwe’s economy. The recent fire has disrupted not just the livelihoods of traders but also the supply chain for vendors and businesses dependent on the market’s goods. The ripple effect of the incident extends beyond Harare, impacting families and enterprises that rely on Mbare Musika as a primary source of fresh produce and wholesale commodities.

Such events have become a catalyst for stakeholders to reexamine the structural weaknesses within Zimbabwe’s market spaces. For years, Mbare Musika has operated with limited safety infrastructure. While the area is under constant surveillance from security personnel, there appears to be a lack of standardized safety protocols that could have contained the fire. This tragic episode illustrates the high cost of such gaps in safety and training.

There is also a deeper issue at play: the lack of insurance and compensation mechanisms for informal traders. Unlike formal businesses, most vendors at Mbare Musika are not covered by any form of insurance, leaving them vulnerable to complete financial ruin. The absence of financial safeguards exacerbates their plight, making recovery a daunting task. Policymakers must consider this aspect while devising a recovery strategy for the market.

Moving forward, the case against Chakauya is not just about determining one man’s culpability. It is about addressing the broader structural issues that put markets like Mbare Musika at risk. As the bail hearing approaches, the focus will be on whether this incident will result in substantial changes to safety regulations and operational standards at public marketplaces.

Mbare Musika’s future now hangs in the balance. Traders and their families await a resolution that goes beyond punitive action against a single individual. They seek assurances that their businesses will not be susceptible to similar tragedies. This requires collaborative efforts from the government, local authorities, and the market community itself. Implementing comprehensive fire safety programs, installing adequate fire-fighting equipment, and educating personnel are critical steps in mitigating future risks.

While the courtroom proceedings unfold, the spotlight remains on Mbare Musika’s resilience. The market has survived multiple challenges over the decades—from economic downturns to infrastructural neglect. Yet, the recent fire is a stark reminder that resilience alone is not enough. It calls for concrete action to ensure that Mbare Musika’s role as a cornerstone of Harare’s economy is safeguarded for the future.

The aftermath of the Mbare Musika fire will resonate for years to come, as the traders seek to rebuild from ashes and as Harare considers what needs to change to prevent another such catastrophe. The debate over liability, safety, and prevention will shape not only the outcome of Chakauya’s trial but also the safety culture of Zimbabwe’s bustling market spaces.

The Zim bulletin