Kamwala demolitions leave traders uncertain about livelihoods

By MUSHIMA MULEMENA

THE demolition of more than 360 makeshift structures around the Kamwala flyover bridge and about 500 structures at the Blue Tent trading area in Lusaka has left affected traders uncertain about the future of their businesses and livelihoods.

The exercise has raised concerns among traders over the loss of their trading spaces and what options are available to them following the demolitions.

Meanwhile, 150 Special Forces personnel have been deployed to clean up the affected areas as part of activities marking the 43rd Special Forces Day.

One of the affected traders, Petronella Ngandu, said the demolition came as a surprise, as traders were only given notice to remove their merchandise shortly before the exercise began.

In an interview, Ms Ngandu said the affected shops were located behind Big Mode, where structures were previously demolished in 2023.

She said the shops were subsequently constructed by a Chinese businessman, who sold them to traders, leaving those who had bought the premises facing another demolition.

Ms Ngandu said some traders had their merchandise damaged while rushing to retrieve their belongings during the exercise, while others lost goods through theft.

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