Nelspruit businessmen do their 67 minutes for Madiba

Patrick Mlambo and Benedict Ndlovu have become permanent fixtures in the city’s landscape. The pair, who hail from rural KwaZulu-Natal, and live in Soweto, are flower sellers in Mbombela.

They undertake regular trips to Johannesburg to collect their flowers, which they sell to motorists driving along Mostert Street. According to Mlambo, they have been working alternating weeks since 1999. They eke out a meagre living from the enterprise, but believe that the smiles they bring to the faces of motorists are worth the early mornings and late evenings.

He said, “There is no other way but to create employment for yourself doing what you love.”

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Mlambo added that the business fluctuates. A typical morning starts with rising early and being at the spot at about 06:30. The busiest times are usually at about 22:00.

Peak business times for them include month end, Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day, when motorists virtually line up to surprise their spouses, loved ones and mothers with a bunch of fresh flowers.

Between the pair, Ndlovu is the more animated. He entertains the passing motorists with his energetic dance moves and a permanent smile on his face.

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This has earned him the moniker “Smiley” among those who use the road regularly. In recognition of this, and with Mandela Day on the horizon, Emnotweni Casino and Lowvelder senior management have selected Ndlovu to be the recipient of their bit for Mandela Day, to honour the flower seller who plies his trade daily on the street.

Louise Botes, executive secretary, director of operations and the complex general manager at Emnotweni Casino said, “We will be dedicating our 67 minutes in honour of Madiba by working while Smiley has a well-deserved break. The proceeds from any sales made will be given to him, as we commemorate the life of the late statesman.”