Wenslus Murape
Nyore Madzianike
THE temporary market being constructed to accommodate traders affected by the fire that razed Mbare Musika in October is set to open before Christmas, contractors behind the project have confirmed.
Masimba Holdings, the company tasked with building the temporary structure and developing the permanent market, says significant progress had already been made in developing the former.
Speaking during the company’s 50th anniversary of being listed on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange, Masimba Holdings chief executive officer Engineer Fungai Matahwa said earthworks and concrete foundation work had been completed, with erection of steel structures starting this week.
“By Christmas, the traders will be using the facilities,” said Eng Matahwa.
“We have completed all earthworks and concrete foundations.
“The steel structure is 60 percent fabricated and erection begins next week (this week) so that by Christmas, our traders will be using it.
“We are currently over 50 percent complete and expect to reach around 75 percent by the end of next week (this week).”
The temporary market is being built to ensure traders can resume operations while plans for a permanent, modernised Mbare Musika are being finalised.
When completed, the new three-storey market will cater for 10 000 traders. It will include a budget hotel and cold rooms for storage.
Residents near the construction site expressed satisfaction with the ongoing work.
Ms Shelly Mudzinga praised the project for providing hope and restoring livelihoods.
“We are excited to see progress on the project,” she said.
“It is showing how the Government is committed to empowering people and saving the livelihoods of those who have been working at Mbare Musika.
“People were left stranded and working there (Mbare Musika) was now a bit difficult, especially on rainy days.
“The structures will provide shelter and security to traders here.”
Another resident, Mr Munesi Sithole, said the market would provide opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs.
“This project will create new opportunities.
“We hope the allocation of stalls will be fair and transparent,” he said.
The fire at the old Mbare Musika on October 8 caused damage estimated at US$5 million.
Once the temporary market is operational, Masimba Holdings will shift focus to constructing the permanent facility, which is expected to be completed within six months.
In addition to the Mbare Musika project, the Government has announced plans to revamp the Glen View Area 8 Furniture Market in Harare, which is frequently affected by fires.
Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe confirmed two sites had been identified to accommodate 5 000 furniture traders between Glen View Area 8 and High Glen.
daniel chigunwe
