Finding the Maputo Central Market (Mercardo Central de Maputo) : seeing the informal economy in formal architecture

Abstract

The low-lying Baixa area of Maputo, is the historic and current city centre of Maputo. The district is an important transport hub, and business centre of Mozambique. The Mercado Central de Maputo (Maputo Central Market), is the only infrastructure provided in support of the micro-enterprisers and traders of the city. The Central Market has reached capacity, and informal street markets have developed to the north. These have become fractured and disconnected from facilities that allow for clean, comfortable, hygienic trade, and a healthier business environment. The architectural proposal offers a solution to the current inadequate trader infrastructure, while also recognizing the area’s heritage and economic significance. The fluxing character of the market is also important in the design. Promotion of micro-enterprise and consequent economic growth will be achieved through an upgrade and expansion of market related facilities. This will allow a greater number of marginalised vendors formal recognition and legitimacy. The intervention will act as a catalyst project in the urban regeneration, through the consolidation of the fractured market areas. Increasing the market’s drawing power on potential customers will promote the Central Market as a destination within its own right.