Harare is gearing up for a significant transformation as the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), in collaboration with the Harare Metropolitan Police, embarks on a comprehensive crackdown targeting street vendors, touts, and illegal car wash operators. This operation, aptly named “Operation Guta Ngarigare Rakachena” (Operation Clean City), is being launched in preparation for the high-profile 44th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit, scheduled for August 17th.
The primary goal of the operation is to present Harare in a state of order and control as it hosts this crucial regional event. Authorities are determined to ensure a smooth and efficient summit by addressing activities that are perceived as disruptive to the city’s image. The crackdown, which has already commenced, includes a wide array of targets from unlicensed vendors to illegal pirate taxis, also known as “mushikashika.”
1. **Street Vendors and Car Wash Operators:**
– Only licensed vendors are permitted to operate. Those found non-compliant will be issued yellow cards, with repeat offenders facing red cards and possible detention.
– Car wash operators are also included in the crackdown, with efforts to curtail unauthorized and unsanitary practices.
– Illegal taxi operators and their touts, who often engage in aggressive solicitation, are being targeted. The crackdown aims to eliminate dangerous parking, illegal pickups, and drop-offs.
– A nationwide initiative, “No To Touts,” complements this effort, focusing on curbing the activities of touting gangs that often operate with pirate taxis and public service vehicles.
– Authorities have conducted roadshows and awareness campaigns to inform the public about the operation. They encourage vendors and taxi operators to visit the Harare Metropolitan Police Headquarters or ZRP Public Relations for information on obtaining licenses and adhering to regulations.
While the crackdown aims to enhance the city’s appearance and functionality for the summit, it has raised concerns among some local residents. Many informal traders who rely on these activities for their livelihood are apprehensive about the operation’s impact on their financial stability. Vendors, particularly those operating without licenses, are worried about the lack of alternative spaces provided by the government. A street vendor expressed frustration, stating, “Where are we supposed to go? We have families to feed. The government should provide us with designated areas to operate, not just chase us away.”
Police officials assert that the operation is essential for ensuring a secure and orderly environment for the SADC Summit. They emphasize that those wishing to operate legally should obtain the necessary licenses and adhere to city regulations. The authorities have also directed those with questions about licenses or designated selling areas to the Harare Metropolitan offices at Rowan Martin.
The SADC Summit, set to take place at the newly constructed Parliament Building in Mt. Hampden’s New City, is expected to draw a significant number of delegates, dignitaries, and media representatives. As Zimbabwe assumes the SADC chairmanship, the successful hosting of this event is seen as a critical opportunity to showcase the country’s ability to manage and host high-profile international gatherings. The ongoing crackdown is viewed as a necessary step in ensuring that Harare presents itself as a well-organized and welcoming host city. However, balancing this goal with the needs and livelihoods of informal traders remains a significant challenge.
In other news – Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu face new arrests on updated charges
Businessmen Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu have found themselves in further legal jeopardy as the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has arrested them on new charges related to the use of false documents. This latest development adds to their existing legal woes stemming from initial fraud allegations involving US$7 million from the Presidential Goat Scheme.
Chimombe and Mpofu, who were already in custody and awaiting a High Court decision on their bail appeal, now face additional complications. Their legal team had hoped for a reprieve after filing for bail pending trial on Monday, but these new charges could significantly impact their chances of release. Read More
