Trade Union Federation Urges Formalization of Zimbabwe’s Booming Informal Sector

16 March 2025

By Anisha Hungwe

The Zimbabwe Trade Federation of Trade Unions (ZTFTU) has issued a strong call for the immediate formalization of the nation’s informal sector, citing concerns over legal non-compliance and the sector’s detrimental impact on established businesses.

Speaking at the Zimbabwe-Namibia program on conflict resolution which concluded on Friday in Bulawayo, ZTFTU Secretary General Kennias Shamuyarira emphasized the urgent need for a unified national effort to address the challenges posed by the informal economy

Shamuyarira further asserted that the rapid expansion of the informal sector is fueled by perceived government and business community support, creating an uneven playing field for formal businesses.

The ZTFTU’s call comes amidst ongoing discussions about the role of the informal sector in Zimbabwe’s economy, which has grown significantly in recent years due to economic challenges and unemployment rate.