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Nqobile Tshili Chronicle Correspondent
THE clock is ticking for second-hand clothes traders who are now pondering their next move following a ban on the sale of the clothing that comes into effect on September 1. Presenting the mid-term budget review last month, the Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Patrick Chinamasa, said from next week Wednesday, the sale of second-hand clothing would be illegal.

Second-hand clothes traders who spoke to The Chronicle in Bulawayo yesterday urged the government to review its position, especially considering the sacking of more workers following a recent landmark Supreme Court ruling that allowed employers to send home employees on three months’ notice, empty handed.

Caleb Shumba said there must be a ban on selected second-hand clothes, not a blanket one. He said the government must only ban the sale of second hand undergarments. “They can ban the selling of used towels, panties, bras and stockings. They pose a health hazard to people but I’m against the idea of banning all second-hand clothes,” said Shumba.

“The clothes don’t just benefit us who are selling but the general public who can’t afford to buy clothes from the formal sector. I’m here because I’ve to do everything to feed my family.” Irene Murwira, a widow from Queens Park suburb, said the government must take into cognisance the fact that some families were being sustained by the trade.

“As old as I am do you think I enjoy having running battles with the police. I’ve school going children I’m fending for. One is at university and two are in high school. We strongly call on the government to allow us to continue selling our wares,” said Murwira.

Sihle Mauka, a Pumula North suburb resident, said her husband was among the 200 Zimpost workers who lost their jobs following the Supreme Court ruling.

She is now the only bread-winner and the ban spells doom for her family.

Delivering the state of the nation address in Parliament on Tuesday, President Mugabe said challenges in the Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) would be addressed as the industry is pivotal to the country’s economy.

“Following the closure of large corporations, Small to Medium Enterprises have become prominent in the Zimbabwean economy.

“Although the SMEs sector has steadily become the main source of livelihood for many, the youth, retrenches and the unemployed, among them, the sector is experiencing several challenges,” said President Mugabe.

“Government will need to address SMEs operating infrastructure, such as construction of vendor marts and factory shells, and the provision of human power training.”