By Melody Korongwe
Harare, Zimbabwe – In a move to formalize the economy and address public health concerns, the Government of Zimbabwe has officially banned the importation and sale of second-hand clothing, as well as all night vending activities.
Announced by Minister of Local Government and Public Works Daniel Garwe on August 4, 2025, the directive has been met with immediate and widespread defiance from vendors who argue it threatens their livelihoods.
During a meeting with City of Harare councilors, Minister Garwe stated, “The Government has banned the importation and sale of second-hand clothing. Consequently, street and night vending activities are also banned.”
He directed local authorities to collaborate with law enforcement authorities to ensure that there is no further street or night vending. The time to act is now, not later.
The government’s rationale is to protect formal businesses and the local textile industry, while also combating illicit activities.
The Minister cited that night vending has become a hotbed for illicit drug and substance deals, posing threats to health, the economy, and national security.
However, the ban has not stopped the trade; it has merely driven it underground. As the sun sets, a different kind of market comes to life in Harare’s backstreets. Vendors, who once occupied designated stalls, now operate in a clandestine, high-risk environment.
“They talk about formalizing the economy, but they are taking away the only way we can put food on our tables. How are we supposed to feed our children? We have no choice but to operate at night”. said Mai Tinashe, a vendor
Another vendor, Tawanda, highlighted the new risks involved.
“During the day, police are everywhere. But at night, we have lookouts. When we see a patrol car, we pack up and hide. It’s a risk, yes, but it’s a necessary one.”
City council officials are tasked with the difficult job of implementing the ban.
“The proliferation of second-hand clothing poses significant health risks due to the potential for the transmission of diseases,” a council spokesperson stated.
Furthermore, it undermines our local textile industry, hindering job creation and economic growth within Zimbabwe.
Another official, who wished to remain anonymous, added, “We understand the challenges faced by vendors, and we are working with government agencies to explore alternative livelihood options.
However, the law is clear, and we have a responsibility to ensure compliance for the benefit of all residents.”
The situation has created a tense cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and the vendors.
Raids are common, and vendors often lose their entire stock, a devastating blow that can take months to recover from.
Yet, the high demand for affordable clothing ensures the market always re-emerges. As long as the ban remains in place and economic hardship persists, the night will continue to be the new day for Zimbabwe’s second-hand clothing vendors, whose defiance is a desperate act of survival.
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