New Mbare Musika Market Restores Livelihoods After Devastating Fire

The new Mbare Musika Market, opened in April 2025, has restored trading and livelihoods for thousands of vendors following the devastating October 2024 fire (image source)

HARARE — The opening of the new Mbare Musika Market in April 2025 has restored trading activities and renewed hope for thousands of vendors, months after a devastating fire destroyed the former market and wiped out livelihoods.

The modern market complex was officially commissioned by President Emmerson Mnangagwa following swift Government intervention after the October 2024 inferno, which left traders without stalls, stock or working capital. Although Mbare Musika falls under municipal jurisdiction, the President declared a state of disaster in response to the blaze, triggering national support and fast-tracked reconstruction.

The intervention resulted in the development of a secure and orderly trading hub designed to improve safety, working conditions and dignity for vendors. Since its opening, traders have welcomed the improved infrastructure, citing protection from harsh weather, enhanced security and reduced fire risk.

“I have come to appreciate the benefits of this complex, especially now that we are in the rainy season. I do not have to worry about my stock being drenched by the rains, nor do I have to worry about fire again. The new market hub is very convenient,” said one beneficiary.

Vendors also pointed to the availability of key amenities such as banking services, a police presence, food outlets and designated parking bays as major improvements over the old market. The organised layout has attracted a broader customer base, including higher-end buyers, boosting business confidence and daily trading volumes.

Although described as a temporary facility, the new market has capacity to accommodate more than 3,000 traders. Government has since earmarked Tsiga Grounds for the construction of a permanent high-rise market complex expected to house up to 10,000 traders, as part of a wider urban renewal programme aimed at transforming Mbare into a major economic hub.

Authorities say the Mbare Musika intervention reflects Government’s commitment to rebuilding livelihoods, modernising urban trading spaces and supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which are a key pillar of the national economy. For many traders, the new market represents more than improved infrastructure — it is a symbol of resilience, recovery and a dignified chance to rebuild after last year’s devastation.