Government Plans For A Three-Storey Mbare Musika Market After Recent Fire Disaster

The government has announced plans to transform Mbare Musika Traders Market with a modern three-storey building. This follows after a fire destroyed the market. The new building will be designed to accommodate thousands of traders.

According to Information Minister Jenfan Muswere, the market will be reconstructed as a three-storey facility capable of accommodating up to 10,000 traders. The announcement was made during a recent Cabinet briefing. They emphasized that this redevelopment aligns with the government’s “Building Back Better” initiative.

The Mbare Musika Traders Market project will serve to pilot the Smart Market concept. The objective of the Smart Market concept is the enhancement of trading environment through provision of safe and modern facilities.

Fire and its Impact on the Mbare Musika Community

The need for reconstruction arose after a devastating fire on October 14, 2024, which led President Mnangagwa to declare the market a State of Disaster.

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President Mnangagwa Mbare Fire — MbareMusika Fire [Image: ZBC]

The fire severely impacted approximately 4,695 traders and affected the livelihoods of around 23,000 people connected to the market. The government’s comprehensive response plan aims to provide immediate and long-term support to those affected.

The Harare City Council has designated a temporary trading space opposite Carter House to ease the transition while reconstruction is underway. This move is intended to provide a secure place for traders to conduct business as they await the new, upgraded market.In addition to providing alternative workspace, the government has introduced financial aid programs, including loans, grants, and stimulus packages designed to help traders rebuild their stock and resume operations.

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Construction to Begin in November 2024

The reconstruction project is set to kick off in November 2024 and is estimated to be completed within seven months. Once finished, the new market will offer upgraded facilities and act as a model for future market projects aimed at creating safer, more efficient, and user-friendly trading spaces across the country.