Mbare market inferno: Mnangagwa declares State of Disaster

ZIMSPHERE

HARARE – In the wake of a devastating fire at Mbare Traders Market on October 8, 2024, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared a State of Disaster. The inferno, whose cause remains unknown, took hours to extinguish and has severely impacted over 4,000 traders by destroying the entire retail section and parts of the wholesale market.

Mbare market fire declared state of disaster

The raging flames that destroyed large parts of the Mbare market.

On October 14, 2024, the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works issued a statement emphasizing the significance of this declaration in mobilizing resources to rebuild the market and support those affected.

The statement reads:

"His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa has, in terms of Section 27(1) of the Civil Protection Act [Chapter 10:06], declared A State of Disaster following a destructive fire at the Mbare Traders Market on 8th October 2024.

"The unfortunate inferno, which razed down the whole retail section and parts of the wholesale market, affected over 4 000 traders whose livelihoods have been negatively impacted.

"The declaration will thus assist in mobilising necessary resources, in cash and kind, to support rebuilding of the market as well as assist affected entrepreneurs resuscitate their businesses.

"The nation is advised that Government in collaboration with the private sector and other stakeholders, is working flat out to build back better."