ZIMBABWEAN cross-border traders doing business in Mozambique have started counting their losses as they are no longer able to travel to the neighbouring country following the recent political clashes between Renamo insurgents and government troops.
JOHN NYASHANU STAFF REPORTER
In an interview with our sister paper NewsDay, Zimbabwe Cross Border Traders’ Association secretary-general Augustine Tawanda said indications were that many of them would stop business due to the unrest in Mozambique.
“Traders are likely to fear going to Mozambique because of the war. Though we are yet to get reports of the extent to which business has been affected, what we gather is that many are fearing to go to areas like Chimoio and Tete,” said Tawanda.
Over the weekend, NewsDay visited numerous flea markets in Harare where various traders, especially those involved in selling secondhand clothes, expressed uncertainty over the future of their businesses.
“I have been in this business for the past four years and have raised my family through it. However, as of now, I don’t know if I will travel to Mozambique again after selling this consignment considering the situation that we understand is prevailing there,” said Precious Chitsinde.
Another trader raised the same concern, urging the region to move in and ensure safety in Mozambique.
“Mozambique cannot be left to burn. Remember this is the country that ensured that countries like Zimbabwe and many others in Southern Africa achieved their independence. In my view it is payback time and Sadc must pull its resources and see to it that there is stability in that country because if it collapses we all collapse,” said another trader who refused to be identified.
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Renamo bandits recently encamped in the bush from where they have attacked government institutions and civilian properties.
Information minister Jonathan Moyo recently said Zimbabwe would stand guided by Sadc on how to deal with the Mozambican crisis.
