Ndola City Council has clarified that the Statutory Instrument No. 12 of 2018 which banned street vending among other vices is still active.
In a statement issued to Money FM News, Ndola City Council Public Relations Manager Tilyenji Mwanza said the Local Authority has noted that some vendors in the city have not understood the Local Government Minister’s instructions to Councils on the restriction of the use of excessive force against street vendors.
Ms Mwanza said after consultation and clarification with the Ministry of Local Government, the city council has been informed that street vending is still banned as SI No. 12 of 2018 on Street Vending and Nuisances amendment is still in effect as the SI has never been repealed.
“Following the Ministry of Local Government’s directive censuring Council Police not to use excessive force on street vendors, the Local Authority conducted a talk with its police officers,” She said.
Ms Mwanza has since urged members of the public to report any officer who will be found wanting in action such as the personalizing of confiscated goods as well as trashing of goods instead of submitting them as exhibit to relevant authorities.
“As a council, we have noted the sporadic return of Street Vendors in the Central Business District and therefore we would like to advise the traders to use the various legal trading places that are available in the city,” She said.
Ms Mwanza says the Local Authority will not entertain street vending and will continue to legally enforce the prescribed punishment against the vice.