Bulawayo Mayor's Vision for Enhancing Working Conditions at eGodini Market

Bulawayo Mayor Unveils Bold Plans to Enhance Working Conditions for Bulawayo Informal Traders at Egodini

Mayor Senator David Coltart of Bulawayo unveiled plans on Tuesday to address the concerns raised by informal traders regarding the working conditions at the newly constructed vending bays in Egodini.

Speaking at a meeting held to discuss the Bulawayo informal sector survey, Coltart outlined the measures taken and those planned for implementation in the upcoming phases.

“At Egodini, as you have seen, we have opened phase 1A and we are about to move to phase 1B. We are pleased to tell you we have really started to implement some of these measures in anticipation of the outcome of this report to improve the working conditions for vendors,” Coltart said, expressing his commitment to addressing the concerns raised by the traders.

David Coltart commemorated World Water Day emphasising the critical importance of water conservation and the need for collective action.

Vendors’ Shelter Priority

Coltart emphasised the importance of shelter for the vendors, stating, “We have now completely changed the design. Shelter is needed in the markets, and they need to be covered with roofs to protect the vendors, creating a more attractive environment to shield them from the sun, heat, and rain, particularly for food and perishables.”

To ensure clarity and organisation within the markets, Coltart proposed the establishment of clearly marked bays in both large markets and single market areas.

He stressed the need for numbered bays and corresponding vendor assignments, stating, “Maps need to be established so that the city knows the locations of its bays throughout the city. All bays will be numbered, with a vendor assigned to each particular bay with a corresponding number for certainty for both the city council and the vendor.”

Amenities Access

Coltart also addressed the crucial need for access to basic amenities. “They need to have access to potable water and toilets, particularly in large and medium-scale markets. It is critical to have access to toilets and water in the markets,” he explained, recognizing the importance of hygiene and sanitation for both vendors and customers.

In an effort to enhance security and convenience, Coltart proposed the incorporation of solar power in larger markets.

“We need solar power in the larger markets to provide light, which is a security issue, and also to enable vendors to charge their cell phones and for some vendors to be able to run their stores,” he stated.

Furthermore, the mayor highlighted the significance of childcare facilities within the markets. Coltart stressed the need for creches in large and medium-scale markets, ensuring the safety and well-being of children.

Children Safe Spaces

“Children can go there, be adequately looked after, and kept safe. Children can be taught and can even have access to books,” he explained.

Coltart’s proposals aim to create a conducive and supportive working environment for informal traders in Bulawayo. By addressing the concerns raised during the survey meeting, the mayor demonstrates his commitment to improving the quality of life for vendors and fostering a thriving informal sector within the city.

With phase 1B on the horizon, the implementation of these measures is expected to bring about significant improvements to the working conditions in Egodini and contribute to the overall development of Bulawayo’s informal sector.