Shongweni Market prepares to reopen
The Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market aims to be a safe outing space for Durban families.
AFTER five-and-a-half months of closure due to the nationwide lockdown, the Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market will once again open its doors to the public on Saturday, 5 September.
“We received the go-ahead from the Department of Health just over two months ago, however, we decided to wait. This decision didn’t come lightly as all factors were considered. Now though, we feel it is the right time to open again,” said the market administrator, Donnee Murray.
The Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market was established by the Standeaven family in 1998 as they dreamed of starting a weekly farmers market to help local farmers move surplus stock.
From its humble beginnings of only 12 stalls on an open field, the market grew rapidly. It has evolved and now includes crafts, live music and more.
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“What draws people each week is the unique ambience. The fact that you can buy products directly from the producer, the safe and friendly environment, the professional management and, above all, the feeling of being part of a community,” said Murray.
Still proudly family-owned after 21 years, 2020 is the start of a new era for the Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market as the whole family is now involved, there was a brand refresh and a new area of the market will be introduced: a cut nature trail that is about 500m long.
“With regards to the Covid-19 requirements, no mask means no entry. Everyone entering the market will need to sanitise their hands with our provided units. Social distancing of 1.5m must be respected. We will have staff continually sanitising surfaces, the traders will sanitise their tables as well as having all PPE equipment in place. All stall holders will be screened each week,” said Murray.
There are new picnic areas for people to enjoy and the main seating areas, under the tents, will be spread out.
To avoid congestion and queues, the stalls in the food court area will also be spaced out accordingly.
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“We urge the public to be responsible. Masks need to cover your mouth and nose, unless you are eating away from everyone. If you do not comply. you will be asked to leave. We want to create a safe place for the community to come together, support one another and share in that ethos. We are relying on the public to be responsible – we must look after each other. The market is a choice of destination, if you are not feeling well or your immune system is compromised, do the responsible thing and stay at home until you feel better,” she said.
Come rain or shine, the market will be open each Saturday between 6.30am to 12.30pm from Saturday, 5 September and families, along with their pets, are invited.
The market is also wheelchair friendly.
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At the time of going to press, the contents of this feature mirrored South Africa’s lockdown regulations.
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