Jacob Mafume Speaks Out After Video Showing Man Cooking Sadza in Harare CBD Sparks Outcry
Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume has reacted to widespread public concern after a video showing a man cooking sadza in the open, in the middle of the city centre, went viral.
The footage shows the man seated in the Harare CBD, using a gas stove to prepare a large pot of sadza alongside a saucepan containing relish. The video prompted a strong reaction from netizens, who criticised the apparent normalization of cooking on city streets.
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Call for Regulation or Ban
In response to the viral video, Mayor Mafume stated that authorities would consult on measures to address the situation.
“We will consult the relevant authorities but this calls for a complete ban of night time trading or strict regulation of it. This type of serving food in the city centre is a serious public health risk. We have noted the economic push factors but they do not justify this!”
The mayor emphasised that public health and hygiene must take priority, even as economic hardships drive some residents to seek alternative livelihoods.
Public Outcry Over City Standards
The video has triggered a wave of criticism online, with residents lamenting what they see as the city’s decline. Many netizens noted that Harare, once known as the “Sunshine City,” is losing its appeal and being allowed to fall into disrepair.
Concerns were raised over how cooking openly on city streets has become increasingly normalized, raising both public health and safety questions.
Here are some of the comments;
@PTChimusoro;
Someone is cooking Sadza on a gas stove and selling right at Copa Cabana. The Sunshine City is gone! 
@NoRiver5;
Harare is now a village. Let them cook
@Zwe263;
Law enforcement should act swiftly on such. It’s not safe for everyone around. The food is a health hazard. He is not paying taxes for the revenue and local council ain’t getting anything. It’s eyesore as well and primitive. We are struggling in Zim but thats nk excuse for this.
@Teamblack84;
@nickmangwana haa guys you have lowered our standards. Is this the Zimbabwe that we want.
@baba12345majoro;
Harare is now a growth point , anyway I feel sorry for the people who buy sadza from such people.
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