Emmanuel Manyati
Before the clean-up exercise by Mutoko RDC authorities, one would be welcomed by a dilapidating and disorganised social order characterised by disobedience of council by-laws by various informal money seekers.
Even when the informal traders and vendors had gone home leaving their vending ramshackle stalls, you would assume this is a war torn town chopped down by long-range missiles.
The central business catchment was now resembling a shanty settlement where disorder would define the social order of the day.
It became an unbearable eyesore to witness vendors bringing tree logs, reeds, plastics, and iron sheets and construct vending shops of their value and quality of their choice.
I vividly remember on several occasions witnessing errant pirate transport operators blocking each other’s way, arguing and creating unnecessary traffic logjam, while bully truck operators would just park their vehicles in the middle of the way for no apparent reason.
Truly speaking, the disorder, chaos, and uncontrollable expansion of unsanctioned entities were culminating into an explosion.
During the second week of September, Mutoko RDC embarked on a blitz to restore sanity and the right way of doing business in the resource rich peri-urban centre.
The purpose of this exercise was to disintegrate disorder and recreate order by designating economic hubs for informal traders into their rightful business spaces.
The benefits of this process have multi-faceted impacts that will paint a clean and modern image for this fast growing resource rich town of the Buja people.
Mutoko RDC has the administrative mandate to govern how the district functions as well as creation of by-laws that are essential for its revenue collection and creating order and sanity.
However, it should be noted well that these informal traders play a vital role in the economy as they seek to survive and contribute towards the national well-being.
A number of people have gone into the informal sector as they seek to be own employers and contribute towards the national economy.
A number of these have also become employers. Informal business needs to be formalised, and right trading places must be prepared enable and youths formally do their businesses.
Despite numerous political accusations and perceived negative impacts of the programme by various analysts, no amount of accusations can outsmart the cleaning of junk and restoration of sanity in the district as it readies itself to be a competing granite town in Zimbabwe.
Restoring sanity in a junky settlement can bring about numerous advantages and improvements to the community.
Here are some potential benefits:
Improved quality of life
Restoring sanity can enhance the overall quality of life for Mutoko residents. It helps create a safer environment, reduces crime rates, and promotes a sense of wellbeing. People can enjoy public spaces, walk around with fewer concerns, and feel more secure in their homes.
Economic Revitalisation
A junky town often faces economic decline due to negative perceptions and lack of investment.
By restoring sanity, the town can attract businesses, investors, and tourists in areas like Mutemwa/Mutoko Ruins tourism. This can lead to job creation, increased economic activity, and a boost to the local economy.
Community Cohesion
Communities plagued by junk and disorder may experience social fragmentation and a lack of community spirit. Restoring sanity can help bridge divides, foster a sense of unity, and encourage the Buja people to take pride in their town. It can lead to increased community engagement, co-operation, and a stronger social fabric.
Health and well-being
Junky towns may harbour health risks, such as increased pollution, pests, and hazardous waste.
Cleaning up the town and restoring order can improve public health and reduce environmental hazards. Residents can enjoy cleaner air, reduced exposure to toxins, and a healthier living environment.
Environmental benefits
Garbagy towns often suffer from pollution and environmental degradation. Restoring sanity involves cleaning up litter, managing waste properly, and promoting sustainable practices. This can lead to a cleaner and more attractive town, benefiting both residents and the natural environment.
Increased property values
Restoring sanity can have a positive impact on property values like the malls under construction. A clean and well-maintained town is more appealing to homebuyers, leading to increased demand and potentially higher property prices. This can benefit homeowners, stimulate real estate investment, and generate additional revenue for the town through property taxes.
Enhanced reputation
Mutoko reputation is golden, an unclean town tends to have a negative reputation, which can deter visitors, businesses, and potential residents. By restoring sanity, the Mutoko can change its image and gain a more positive reputation.
This can attract new opportunities, including tourism, cultural events, and collaborations with neighbouring communities.
Let us all support our town and council efforts, let us appreciate their endeavours, soon and very soon Mutoko will be a great home for all.