Durban – The eThekwini Municipality is set to officially launch the first phase of the R29 million Mansel Road Market Development on Friday, alongside the handover of trading permits to 53 newly selected Church Walk traders, in a move aimed at boosting Durban’s informal economy.
According to SAnews, the project forms part of the municipality’s broader efforts to modernise informal trading infrastructure, create sustainable livelihood opportunities and support the growth of small businesses.
Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee, Thembo Ntuli, said the informal economy remains a vital driver of the city’s economy.
“Our informal traders are not only business owners, but they are also job creators, breadwinners and drivers of local economic growth.”
Ntuli said investments such as the Mansel Road Market Development are creating “safer, dignified and business-friendly trading spaces” that will enable entrepreneurs to grow their businesses while improving their families’ livelihoods.
The upgraded market includes improved trading infrastructure, upgraded ablution facilities, and dedicated maintenance and cleaning services to provide traders with a safer and more conducive business environment.
The municipality said the allocation of trading permits will allow the newly selected Church Walk traders to operate legally while supporting the long-term sustainability of their businesses.
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Compliled by Betha Madhomu
