Own Correspondent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The recently released guidelines for night clubs in Manicaland have left operators scrambling to meet the minimum standards required to remain open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The guidelines, which include requirements such as a 40-square meter floor area, soundproofing, and air conditioning, have raised concerns among operators who fear closure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“We have already started auditing bar licenses across the city and will begin enforcing the new guidelines in the third quarter of this year,” said Blessing Chafesuka, acting Town Clerk of Mutare City Council.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Abel Zhakata, interim secretary general of the Mutare Liquor Traders Association, pleaded for a grace period to allow operators to comply with the new requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Bar owners are asking for a grace period to put their houses in order and adhere to the set requirements. It’s unfair to expect immediate compliance after decades of operating with approved licenses,” Zhakata said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The guidelines also require night clubs to have adequate storage for liquor stocks, illuminated fire escape signs, and separate change rooms for each gender.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Operators argue that meeting these requirements will require significant investment and time, and are seeking a grace period to comply.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“The liquor industry was severely hit by closures during the Covid-19 era, and expecting companies to pump out huge amounts of money overnight to adhere to the new demands is unfair,” Zhakata added.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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