F/town vendor evictions sour Chema Chema’s entry

Friday, February 09, 2024 | 1060 Views |

Up and out: A truck moving vendors’ property after the recent demolitions in Francistown PIC: LESEDI MKHUTSHWA

FRANCISTOWN: The establishment of the P200 million ‘Chema Chema Fund’ for the informal sector, has drawn criticism and skepticism as some local traders feel that the government is trying to save face for the upcoming elections.

Traders here spoke to Mmegi and highlighted the paradox of Chema Chema being launched shortly after the demolition of the Francistown Central Business District (CBD) market place and the eviction of some informal traders.

The demolition sparked controversy among the public, considering it was the result of a legal battle that the Francistown City Council (FCC) doggedly pursued until it secured a favourable ruling in December.

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