A massive fire erupted at Mbare Musika market in Harare on Tuesday night, leading to significant destruction of property and livelihoods for many vendors. The cause of the blaze remains unknown, leaving the community anxious and concerned about the aftermath. Community-based emergency assistance groups sprang into action, mobilizing approximately 90,000 liters of water to help the Fire Brigade combat the inferno. Despite their efforts, the situation was complicated by a large crowd at the scene, with reports of looting emerging from the informal market hub. In response, police were deployed to help manage the situation and clear the area.
In an update shared around 1 a.m. on Wednesday, the Harare City Council announced that the fire had been controlled. They praised the coordinated efforts of various agencies involved, including the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) and the Emergency Help Group, which provided essential resources like water bowsers and fire tenders.
“The fire at Mbare Musika is now under control only after the ZRP cleared the huge crowd that had gathered. Fire tenders and water bowsers provided by the Emergency Help Group managed to gain access to the fire. Well done to the City of Harare Fire Team once again for a great job and a big thank you to ZRP and the Emergency Help Group,” the Council’s update stated.
The devastation has left many vendors in distress, as Mbare Musika is a vital hub for commerce and trade in the city. As the community begins to assess the damage and the impact on livelihoods, discussions about recovery and support for those affected are expected to take center stage in the coming days. The resilience of the Mbare Musika community will be crucial as they navigate the aftermath of this tragic event, and efforts to rebuild and restore the market are already being contemplated.
In other news – Janice Smalls Combs defends son Diddy amid legal troubles
Janice Smalls Combs, the mother of rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs, has come forward to defend her son against serious allegations, asserting that he is not the “monster” portrayed in the media. In a heartfelt statement released through her lawyer, she expressed her devastation over the charges of sex trafficking and racketeering that Diddy faces.
“My son is not the monster they have painted him to be, and he deserves the chance to tell his side,” Janice stated. She emphasized her hope to witness him speak his truth and ultimately be vindicated. Read More
