Sanral gives popular Salt Rock gardening road vendor the boot

Struggling 32-year-old Sydney Mthembu was shattered when told by the South African National Roads Agency (Sanral) to remove his vegetable garden from the side of the road at the Salt Rock N2 off-ramp last week.

For the past 2 years Mthembu had been planting vegetables and plants, which he sold at the traffic light near the Tiffany’s Shopping Centre to earn some income.

“I have been surviving by begging on the road for 3 years, but 2 years ago decided to do something since some people were looking at me as a lazy person who did not want to work and only expected handouts.

“When people gave me money and some bought my plants, it made me feel better because I knew the money I received was also for my hard work.

“I won’t lie my brother, my heart is now broken,” said the father of 5.

He said he knew one of the 2 residents who reported him to Sanral.

“He hates me that man, he once tried to run me over and every time he drove past he would tell me he was going to stop this nonsense (the garden).”

Mthembu said he is surprised by the level of support he receives from residents. They have been giving him money and encouragement.

“One lady took me out for lunch and gave me money and said I must get myself a phone. So today (Tuesday), the first thing I did was get myself a phone and buy some stock. My girlfriend and I are now selling chips and sweets on the side of the road opposite to where my garden was situated,” said Mthembu.

He said he was still passionate about growing and selling plants.

He lost his leg when he was run over by a cane truck in Groutville at age 12.

Sanral Project Manager in the Eastern Region Trevor Zumani, said the road reserve had to be kept clear at all times for the benefit of motorists and for future road needs.

“No trading, planting of vegetables or other illegal occupation within the road reserve is permitted. Sanral has had numerous engagements with the gentleman in question and we requested him to remove his vegetables as he placed not only himself, but other road users at risk,” said Zumani.

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