By A Correspondent

The Masvingo Women Rights Advocacy Group (MWRAG) has strongly condemned the intimidation, harassment, and sexual abuse of women by Masvingo City Municipal Police Officers and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) during the recent crackdown on vendors in Masvingo City. The wave of rights violations against women vendors has surged following a 48-hour ultimatum issued last week by Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe, ordering all local councils to clear vendors from the streets across Zimbabwe.

Since last Wednesday, MWRAG has recorded 16 cases of intimidation, harassment, and sexual assault against women vendors at various locations, including Croco Motors, N-Richards Hurudza, Downtown, Mucheke Rank, Sisk’s Chesvingo Drive, and other busy pick-up points. These incidents have been perpetrated by Municipal Police and law enforcement agents working together to remove vendors from the streets. Many women vendors have reported that their wares were taken violently and without warning.

Women, who are more vulnerable to violence in such situations, have borne the brunt of the crackdown. In contrast, male vendors often manage to resist arrest or flee with their goods, while women are more likely to be targeted.

MWRAG has called on the Masvingo City Council and law enforcement authorities to uphold the rights of vendors, particularly women, during this and future operations. The group also urged the council and government to prioritize women when allocating market stalls, ensuring that they are not forced to trade in undesignated and unsafe areas that expose them to further risks of intimidation, harassment, and violence.