Bindura Municipality Relocates Vendors: Mixed Reactions Emerge

In a move aimed at decongesting the town center and improving order, the Bindura Municipality has begun relocating vendors operating in front of popular retail outlets, including Pick n Pay, to a newly designated trading area adjacent to the old bus terminus

This development has drawn mixed reactions from vendors, touts, bus operators, and residents.

Officials from the local authority defended the relocation, stating that the growing number of vendors crowding shop entrances had become a hazard. 

“Our main priority is to ensure a clean, safe, and orderly business environment for all. The old bus terminus has been refurbished to accommodate vendors with proper shelter and sanitation facilities. This will also ease pedestrian and vehicular traffic in the CBD,” said a municipal police official who declined to be named.

While some vendors welcomed the move, others expressed fears of losing customers.  “We have been here for years, and customers know us. Moving us away might kill our businesses,” said Martha Chiworeka, a vendor selling second-hand clothes. 

However, food vendor Memory supported the decision: ” It’s better than being chased by municipal police daily. Above all, at the new site, we will have proper stalls and running water.”

The relocation has also affected touts and commuter operators who used the Pick n Pay front as a pick-up point. “This place was already crowded with commuter buses. Removing vendors will make it empty,” said a tout who identified himself only as Mujabhuna.

On the contrary, Flabber, a kombi driver disagreed: “If properly managed, this can work. The council must ensure enough space for both transport and vending activities.”

Some shoppers applauded the cleanup, while others lamented the inconvenience.  “The streets were too crowded; it was hard to walk,” said Bindura resident Presley Supiriyano. 

Conversely, student Tanaka Marufu argued: “I used to buy cheap snacks on my way to school. Now I’ll have to walk further.”

As the relocation proceeds, all eyes are on the municipality to ensure a smooth transition and address stakeholder concerns.