By 
Women in Chivhu dominate street vending, selling fruits, vegetables and other goods to support their families as Zimbabwe’s economy worsens. With inflation rising and the scarcity of jobs, many women have turned to informal trade, pushing heavy carts and braving harsh conditions to earn a living.
In the past, most traders in the markets were men because the job needed a lot of strength. But now, more women are taking up this work. They wake up early, load their carts, and walk long distances to sell fresh produce. Even though it is hard, they do it to provide for their children.
One of these women is Mai Tadiwa, a mother of three. Every morning, she pushes her cart through the streets, hoping to sell enough to support her family. “It’s not easy,” she says, “but I must do it to make sure my children eat and go to school.”
By Ruvarashe Gora
This is not just happening in Chivhu. In Harare, Mbare Musika is the biggest market where traders from all over Zimbabwe come to sell their goods. The government is now working on improving the market by building a three-story structure that will have space for 10,000 traders. The new market will have cold rooms for storing fresh produce, a hotel for farmers who travel from far, and special sections for different products.
The government started this project after a fire destroyed parts of Mbare Musika in October 2024. Now, they are working to make the market better and safer for traders.
For women in Chivhu, these changes bring hope. A better market means they will have more space to sell their goods and earn more money. As they continue to break barriers and do jobs once seen as “for men,” they are proving that women can do anything to support their families and build a better future.
The work is difficult, and challenges remain, but these women are determined. With better markets and support, they are showing that hard work and courage can change lives.
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