By Andrew Muvishi
Marondera Municipality has commissioned the First Street Market and Rank to decongest the central business district, formalise informal trading and bring order to public transport.
The facility will accommodate more than 400 vendors and transport operators.
Commissioning the project, Mashonaland East Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Itayi Ndudzo, said the market would restore order in the CBD.
Ndudzo added that this development will also aid Marondera’s pursuance of city status.
“The development comes after years of concerns over congestion.
“(We had) vendors operating on pavements and transport operators competing for limited space,” Ndudzo said.
The project now places the council under scrutiny to ensure the investment translates into sustained service delivery.
This is particularly so relating to the transparent allocation of vending bays and provision of water, sanitation and security.
Vendors Welcome Development
Vendors welcomed the development but demanded accountability.
“We welcome the market because it gives us a proper place to do business.
“(It’s our) hope council will ensure allocation of stands is transparent and fair,” said a Dombotombo vendor, Mrs Mushuku.
Another trader, Allen Dheme, said: “We need proper maintenance, water, sanitation and security.
“The market should remain functional beyond the commissioning ceremony.”
Marondera Residents Open Forum director, Tapiwa Chengeta, said maintenance and transparency would determine the success of the project.
“Proper maintenance, sanitation, water supplies and transparent allocation of stands will be critical,” he said.
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