BVTA Executive Director expresses cautious optimism for the resumption of Egodini market
Bulawayo Vendors and Traders Association (BVTA) Executive Director Michael Ndiweni has expressed cautious optimism regarding the resumption of the long-awaited Egodini market following the announcement made by Bulawayo Mayor David Coltart.
The Egodini market has been a much-discussed project in the region. However, Ndiweni highlighted the history of false opening dates and the lack of progress, as reported by various media outlets, which has led to scepticism within the trader community.
Ndiweni emphasised the need for the redesigning of the market’s base to address concerns raised by traders earlier this year, particularly regarding the protection of traders during harsh weather conditions.
Weather Protection
“Our concern was that the stalls were small and not designed to be protected during rain. We hope that this time around, with the redesigning, these concerns will be addressed,” he said.
The traders’ association also raised concerns about ensuring fair allocation and priority to those who had complied with previous relocation orders. Ndiweni stressed that it would be a great injustice if those who had followed instructions to vacate were left out of the newly allocated trading spaces.
“We call upon the authorities to ensure that priority is given to those who have already moved on. It would be unfair if they are disregarded after waiting for so many years,” Ndiweni emphasised.
Trading Spaces
In support of those traders who have already established themselves in other areas during the extended wait, the BVTA is currently developing a demo trading space called Demo Day. This innovative, solar-powered trading module aims to provide comfort and convenience to traders with features such as lighting, phone charging capabilities, and even the option to play music.
“We are piloting the Demo Day concept in Nkulumane and other areas to offer alternative trading opportunities for our members. It is part of our contribution to the enrichment of the trading experience and the overall development of the market,” Ndiweni stated.
The resumption of the Egodini market project has long been anticipated, with promises of a modern and user-friendly trading facility. However, delays in construction and a lack of progress have left traders frustrated. The reopening, scheduled for January, brings hope for progress, but concerns remain regarding the implementation and fair allocation of trading spaces.
Egodini Market
The Egodini market project, initiated in 2013, aims to revitalise Bulawayo’s central business district and improve trading conditions for informal traders. The construction of the modern market complex, which entails the relocation of thousands of informal traders from various parts of the city, has faced numerous delays and it has been a source of frustration for both traders and the community.
The project is expected to provide better infrastructure and trading spaces for vendors, with the aim of ensuring a more organised and conducive trading environment. The implementation of the project has been hampered by financial constraints and bureaucratic challenges, resulting in delays and scepticism among traders who have been waiting for several years to be allocated their trading spaces.
The resumption announcement by Mayor Coltart has generated renewed hope among traders and stakeholders that the long-awaited Egodini market project will finally move forward. However, concerns about fair allocation, trader protection, and progress are still prevalent within the community.
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