The President of the Zimbabwe Farmers and Traders Association, Cde Cloudious Masviriri, has called on vendors and traders affected by a massive fire that broke out at Mbare Musika last night to come forward with estimates of their losses.
In a statement issued by the national executive, Masviriri revealed that the inferno, which ravaged the iconic market, resulted in the destruction of goods worth millions of dollars leaving many small-scale farmers and traders devastated.
The fire brigade and essential services responded promptly to the emergency, limiting further damage and offering critical support.
“We would like to thank the fire brigade and all essential services for their swift reaction,” said Masviriri.
“Efforts are currently underway to ascertain the cause of the blaze.”
The market, a vital hub for small-scale traders and farmers, has been a key source of livelihood for many in the community. The destruction of wares has placed immense strain on those who rely on the market for their income. In light of the situation, Masviriri appealed for both emotional and financial support, urging well-wishers from both local and international communities to assist.
“We are appealing for support, emotionally and financially, to help our affected members. Most of them are small-scale farmers and traders whose livelihoods are anchored on this market,” Masviriri added.
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The association also emphasized the importance of affected vendors coming forward with detailed reports of their losses.
“We urge our members to inform the executive of the full extent of their losses so we can quantify the actual damage. This is indeed a tragic incident, and we pray for comfort for those affected.”
Masviriri concluded by calling on well-wishers to offer assistance in cash or kind to help traders rebuild and restore their operations.
Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.
WATCH VIDEO : Farmer speaking of the fire
HEARTBREAKING💔 | This farmer lost nearly 5 tonnes of peanuts, valued at US$18,000, in yesterday’s fire at Mbare Musika. You can clearly see that she is still in shock.
📹ZiFM Stereo pic.twitter.com/3yHYyiZU4Y
— Crime Watch Zimbabwe (@crimewatchzw) October 9, 2024
