Africa-Press – Zimbabwe. KAROI, Nov 13 (NewsDay Live) — The Zimbabwe Chamber of Informal Economy Associations (ZCIEA) has urged government to adopt stronger protections for street vendors, saying harassment and unsafe working conditions continue to threaten their livelihoods.
ZCIEA president Lorraine Ndlovu issued the call ahead of International Street Vendors Day on November 14, pressing authorities to ratify and implement the International Labour Organisation’s Convention 190, which seeks to eliminate violence and harassment in the world of work.
“We ardently call upon government to ratify, domesticate and implement ILO C190 to ensure safety and protection for street vendors, market vendors and hawkers,” Ndlovu said in a statement.
She described vendors as the “heart” of many economies — vibrant contributors who preserve culture and keep local communities functioning despite limited recognition from authorities.
“All they require is rights-centred regulation and government support for their growth and sustainability,” she added. Ndlovu also raised concern over low levels of rights awareness among vendors, calling for better access to healthcare — including maternity services — and expanded social protection.
As StreetNet International president, she stressed the need for affordable childcare, disability-inclusive facilities, and safe, modern vending spaces.
Harare Residents Trust executive director Precious Shumba echoed the call, arguing that vending should be recognised as a legitimate livelihood in an economy where informality dominates.
“Authorities must ensure safe and inclusive working environments for vendors, including those with disabilities and the elderly,” Shumba said. He accused municipal police of routinely harassing vendors, despite their central role in driving local economic activity.
“Vendors are the backbone of all communities… yet local authorities are not prioritising the construction of decent, modern working spaces,” Shumba noted, urging councils to view vendors as key stakeholders in planning and budgeting.
International Street Vendors Day, first celebrated in 2012, honours the millions of people who trade informally across the globe and highlights their fight for recognition, fair working conditions and basic rights.
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