Harare City Council (HCC) Director of Housing and Community Services Addmore Nhekairo says the municipality has engaged a partner to ensure adequate infrastructure is built to prevent further fires at Glen View Complex.
The Complex on Tuesday night experienced its second fire inside a week.
“We have roped in a partner whom we intend to put the requisite infrastructure within the area, although today was to assess the cause of the fire we have as Council come up with plans that we intend to implement so that we have a lasting solution to the problem that is bedevilling the artisans in this area,” Nhekairo said on Wednesday as Council officials assessed the damage after another major fire engulfed Glen View area 8 Home Industry Complex at about 9pm Tuesday night.
Nhekairo said HCC was working on fire hydrants and improved road access to lessen the chances of another fires at the complex used by a number of furniture craftsmen.
“We have heard some of their concerns we will go back and look at our plans before finalising them,” said the Housing director.
Also at the scene was HCC chairperson for the Informal Sector Committee, Councillor Anthony Shingadeya who heard the grievances of some artisans at the complex frustrated with repeated losses they have incurred.
One carpenter, who lost his wares said fires were caused not only by inadequate structures but poor communication by the Council with local artisans.
The cause of Tuesday night’s fire remains a mystery.
However, some residents who spoke to this publication said there was no third force but it was mere rivalry amongst the traders.
