Lusaka Province Minister, Sheal Mulyata has commended marketers for maintaining peace and ensuring that there is sanity in trading places.
Speaking during the end of year party for New Soweto Market Marketers, in Lusaka, Ms Mulyata says law and order has prevailed due to the depoliticisation of market places.
She said political caderism is now a thing of the past, owing to the stance made by President Hakainde Hichilema, when he took over office.
The Minister also said the zero tolerance to political violence by the government is reaping benefits in market places, which are now peaceful.
Ms Mulyata said marketers are now living in harmony irrespective of political affiliation.
“A market is a place for life, for laughter, for negotiation, and for community. It should never be a battleground. For too long, our markets, bus stations, and bus stops have been plagued by violence. We have seen the politics of division and intimidation creep into your places of work,” she noted.
Speaking at the same event, Lusaka City Council, Town Clerk, Liftery Ndaba said the local authority will continue to prioritise infrastructure development at markets.
Mr Ndaba said the local authority is determined to ensure that markets are properly managed and fit for trade.
He further applauded marketers for cooperating with Lusaka City Council in keeping New Soweto Market clean.
Meanwhile, New Soweto Market Manager, Majory Mulamfu appealed to the government to consider empowering marketers with favourable financing, using Constituency Development Funds (CDF).
“My appeal to you on behalf of the New Soweto marketers is that they are considered for empowerment with soft loans like it is for other citizens,” she said.
