Soweto market traders cry foul over demolition of their trading spaces in place of a drainage project!

Traders at Lusaka’s Soweto Market have raised alarm over the recent demolition of their shops to make way for a drainage construction project, claiming they were displaced without proper notice or compensation.

One of the affected traders, Nicholas Phiri, expressed deep concern over the manner in which the exercise was conducted.

He alleged that during the demolition, not only were traders forcibly removed, but all their goods were looted by those carrying out the operation.

Phiri also rejected claims that the traders were occupying the land illegally and pointed out that they have been conducting business on the site for many years.

He further questioned the motives behind the demolition, suggesting that the project may be a front to pave the way for a private investor.

“We suspect foul play. Why is an Indian national being given authority to construct a shopping mall here, while we Zambians who have traded on this land for years are being kicked out in the name of drainage construction?” he asked.

He also questioned the selective implementation of the drainage project, arguing that the development could have started from nearby areas like Kanyama, instead of targeting only their market section.

“The trading boundaries are clear,” James stressed and wondered why innocent citizens who are merely trying to survive in this harsh economy being displaced without any form of support or relocation plan?”

Despite making several attempts to seek clarification and intervention from the area councilor, the traders claim their pleas have gone unheard.

They are now calling on authorities to intervene and investigate the matter, which they believe may involve illegal land dealings and disregard for the livelihoods of local traders.