Mafume Orders Halt to Mabelreign ‘Tuckshops’ Construction Amid Public Outcry

HARARE – Jacob Mafume has ordered the immediate suspension of construction at Mabelreign Shopping Centre following allegations that a City of Harare councillor authorised the building of tuckshops on a designated parking area. The directive comes after a heated public debate erupted on 9 April 2026, with residents raising concerns over permanent structures being erected on land reserved for parking at the busy suburban centre.

Responding on 10 April, Mafume confirmed that all construction would be halted pending a full review by the City of Harare.

“All construction there will be halted. The place is for parking, and any construction should be of temporary structures, not brick and mortar. The car park should be restored,” Mafume said.

He added that alternative solutions, such as weekend markets similar to those in Avondale or Borrowdale, could be explored to accommodate informal traders without compromising infrastructure.

The mayor also addressed criticism over how the project proceeded without his knowledge.

“The city is one of the biggest cities in Southern Africa, and unfortunately, my nose is not the biggest in Africa… We rely on various routes to deal with a situation once it is brought up. We need all our noses!” Mafume said.

He further clarified that he had not authorised the construction.

“No, I did not! We will look into the issue in consultation with the community,” he added.

Denford Ngadziore defended the project, saying it followed consultations with residents and the Ward Development Committee aimed at restoring order at Mabelreign shops.

“Many illegal traders are operating on shop pavements and in parking spaces,” Ngadziore said.

He explained that the construction involves small trading units funded by a private businessperson, with plans to rehabilitate the entire parking area.

“This includes installation of boom gates to regulate traffic, as illegal transport operators have invaded the space while some used the parking area as an overnight car park,” he said.

Ngadziore added that demand for the spaces is high, with over 200 residents reportedly applying for the trading bays.

Despite the explanation, some residents have raised concerns over transparency in the allocation of the new shops. One resident alleged on social media that some units were already occupied despite no public advertising of the spaces. Ngadziore dismissed the claims, stating: “Not true.” Urban planning expert Dr. Tendai Gwarada said the dispute highlights ongoing tensions between informal trading needs and proper land use planning.

“Cities must balance economic opportunities with adherence to planning regulations. Converting parking spaces without proper approval undermines urban order,” he said.

The City of Harare is now expected to assess the legality of the construction and determine whether the structures will be removed or modified in line with urban planning regulations. The outcome of the review could set a precedent for how similar developments are handled across the capital, where informal trading continues to put pressure on public infrastructure.

Mabelreign construction controversy