Zimbabwe bans sale of second-hand clothes and nighttime vending in major towns

Authorities in Zimbabwe have banned the sale of second-hand clothes in all central business districts (CBDs) across the municipalities.

The ban also includes a restriction on all-night vending, effective Monday.

During a press conference on Monday, the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, announced that the government has prohibited the importation of second-hand clothing as well.

"All local authorities must enforce this ban immediately. There will be no vending at night and no selling of second-hand clothing in CBD areas," Garwe stated.

He also instructed the city of Harare to work closely with law enforcement to implement these new measures promptly.

Garwe emphasized that street vending undermines formal businesses that pay taxes.

Additionally, he mentioned that night vending has been associated with illicit drug and substance sales, which pose threats to public health, the economy, and national security