10/06/2026
The Ministry of Local Government and Public Works and Office of the President and Cabinet is hosting a High Level Provincial Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Sub Committee Review Meeting today under the theme "Strengthening WASH Governance in Informal Markets: Reflections from the Provincial Review Meeting".
Some key reflections from our Executive Director, Michael Mdladla Ndiweni on the state of WASH in highly informalised urban economies, with particular focus on the realities of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Bulawayo Metropolitan Province include:
1. The management of MSMEs remains not so well coordinated. For instance, in some cases, relations between stakeholders have become toxic, resulting in mistrust, weak communication and the undermining of both municipal By-laws and National laws. This weak coordination affects service delivery, market order, public health, revenue collection and the overall sustainability of informal sector governance.
2. Limited availability of resources to improve WASH infrastructure in informal trading spaces. Many traders operate in environments where access to adequate toilets, clean water, waste disposal systems, bins and skips remains a serious concern. Yet these traders contribute significantly to the local economy and deserve safe, clean and dignified workplaces.
3. the need for more research and practical models on how WASH systems can work effectively in highly informalised economies. Informal markets have unique realities. Therefore, WASH interventions must be designed with traders, local authorities, residents, government departments, development partners and the private sector working together.
4. Market construction and upgrading must prioritise safe markets with reliable water and sanitation facilities. A market should not only be a place of trade, but also a healthy, organised and inclusive economic space. Traders must also continue to participate in clean-up campaigns, waste management initiatives and other community-led efforts that promote a cleaner city.
5. Ensure future WASH model must be guided by the principle of Leaving No One Behind, especially the poor, women, youths, persons with disabilities, informal traders and vulnerable communities. Debates around prepaid water systems and the privatisation of water must be approached carefully. Water is not just an economic commodity; it is a basic human need.
Several WASH improvement strategies where therefore alluded to including the strengthening of Provincial WASH Committees involving traders and local authorities; continuous awareness raising; improved revenue collection from traders; and the provision of bins, skips and other waste management facilities. Partnerships with various stakeholders will also be critical in mobilising resources, strengthening accountability and improving market infrastructure.
The future of our cities depends on how well we manage the relationship between livelihoods, public health, urban order and inclusive governance. Informal traders are not a problem to be removed; they are economic actors who must be organised, supported and included in building cleaner, safer and more resilient cities.
A strong WASH system in informal markets is not only about toilets, water points and bins. It is about dignity, public health, trust, accountability, collaboration and sustainable urban development.
