Zimbabwe: Harare Vendors Given Final Deadline to Clear Streets

Zimbabwe's government has set a final deadline of September 9, 2026, for illegal vendors in Harare to clear their unauthorized sites. The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works announced the crackdown will target illegal vending and informal trading in the Central Business District (CBD) and across the Harare Metropolitan Province.

Minister Daniel Garwe stated that illegal vending has led to poor sanitation, blocked pathways, disrupted formal businesses, and increased congestion. He emphasized that while informal trading is a recognized livelihood, it must adhere to municipal by-laws and be conducted in legally designated markets. The government is particularly concerned about the impact of illegal vending on public health, security, and drug abuse.

Vendors found outside authorized areas by September 9 must vacate immediately and relocate to lawful, designated vending markets. The nationwide clean-up operation, described as zero-tolerance, will begin in Harare and expand to other cities and towns. Municipal police will patrol cleared areas to prevent vendors from returning.

The government aims to restore public order, cleanliness, and trafficability, aligning with its National Development Strategy 2 and Vision 2030 goals. Informal traders are urged to voluntarily move to designated markets to avoid losing their merchandise. Local authorities have been instructed to expedite the registration and allocation of compliant traders to designated vending structures.

The government remains committed to creating a sustainable, orderly, clean, and safe economic environment, calling on residents and stakeholders to cooperate during the operation.