Pathways to open market sustainability at Mtapa Open Market in Gweru, Zimbabwe

Open markets in developing countries face persistent sustainability challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, poor sanitation, and exposure to environmental stressors. This study assessed socio-economic and environmental sustainability challenges at Mtapa Open Market in Gweru, Zimbabwe. A descriptive case study design was adopted, integrating questionnaire surveys (n = 415), semi-structured interviews, and field observations. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS and Microsoft Excel, while qualitative data were thematically analysed to enable triangulation. Findings show that seasonal climatic variability significantly disrupts trading activities, with 65% of traders identifying the rainy season as the most challenging period due to inadequate infrastructure. Sanitation access remains limited: only 26% of traders use public toilets, while 40% rely on informal alternatives, thereby increasing environmental and public health risks. Organic waste constitutes 37% of total waste generated, reflecting the dominance of fresh produce trading. The study highlights the need for improved infrastructure, affordable sanitation services, and enhanced capacity-building, supported by inclusive governance aligned with Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1, Vision 2030, and Africa’s Agenda 2063. The dynamic nature of informal markets implies that sustainability conditions are subject to change over time. This reveals the importance of periodic assessments and longitudinal studies to track sustainability trajectories and refine interventions over time. While context-specific, the insights generated apply to other informal markets in Zimbabwe and similar urban settings in Southern Africa, where informality and service deficits remain prevalent.