Vendors in the resort town of Kariba have since registered a trust in an effort to advocate on issues affecting the informal sector in Kariba town.
The trust, formerly known as Kariba Vendors and Traders Association (KVTA), was registered in September 2021 by a group of informal traders after realising an administration gap that existed between Kariba Town Council and the sector.
The decision to register as a trust comes after Bulawayo Vendors and Traders Association (BVTA) equipped informal traders in Kariba with requisite knowledge on human rights, advocacy and the legislation governing the trade.
KVTA secretary Mr. Tapiwa Mandava applauded BVTA for capacity building and guidance provided during the registration process.
“With guidance from BVTA, we managed to successfully register KVTA, as an association that will be championing the cause of vendors and informal traders in Kariba,” he said. “KVTA ensures that there is a good relationship with the local authority as a way of mitigating conflicts that have arisen over the years resulting from the absence of engagement mechanisms.”
KVTA is a membership based organization where members will pay nominal subscription fees that will enable the organization to carry out its mandate.
As part of its mandate, KVTA also seeks to equip the sector with relevant knowledge and business skills to adapt in a dynamic environment. KVTA will also enhance the formalisation of the informal sector by assisting vendors to register their businesses and obtain licences. The development will assist local traders to acquire loan facilities and contest for tenders.
The association plans to offer revolving loans in an effort to resuscitate ailing businesses in the resort town. BVTA will mentor the newly established entity and provide technical support in the areas of need.