In a bid to further formalise trading in Marabastad, the Tshwane metro has recently announced its intention to develop 60 new stalls in a space adjacent to the Tshwane Retail Market.

During a site visit to the property on March 11, Tshwane’s Mayor, Dr Nasiphi Mayo, emphasised that the stalls would be occupied and used by Tshwane residents.

“We made a promise that we will build infrastructure for the informal sector.”

She added that this was part of the Tshwane Economic Revitalisation Strategy.

Moya said they will be building market stalls for traders trading with grades 4 and 5 fruit and veg.

“We will have space for the food mamas as well.”

The mayor said they expect to complete it by July this year.

Last year, the metro faced backlash for shutting down the market in July due to several traders not possessing adequate certification to trade, and building violations of several by-law and health regulations.

“When we first visited this area, we found that the Tshwane Retail Market lacked inclusion and diversity. We want to end this practice by expanding trading space in this key trading environment,” Moya said.

The MMC for Roads and Transport, as well as the MMC responsible for Region 3, Tlangi Mogale, said that the move will go a long way in making sure that informal traders operate in a conducive environment.

“Our traders in Greater Tshwane will now have their newly built bulk trading centre. This is to ensure a well-organised, health-compliant fruit and vegetables supply and a conducive business environment for our informal traders within the Marabastad business centre,” Mogale said.

“This is another big win for both consumers and suppliers in the city. Most importantly, this shows progress in moving Tshwane forward.”

Late last month, the MMC for Economic Development and Spatial Planning, Sarah Mabotsa, also announced its approval for additional capital expenditure (CapEx) for the Tshwane Market as part of the 2025/26 Financial Year Midterm Budget Adjustment.

She said a meeting will be held at Tshwane House on March 18 at 14:00, to explain the details of these developments to traders and inform them of what would be expected from them.

“Next week, we will have an imbizo, so we can answer all the questions regarding this Marabastad project. We want to

Mabotsa said they will explain the new Informal Trading and Township Economy By-law, which was passed by Council in October 2025.
It aims to regulate, formalise, and support informal businesses, including street vendors, spaza shops, and home-based enterprises.

It also aims to boost the township economy by enhancing safety standards, offering support, and prioritising the allocation of trading opportunities to South African citizens.

Resident and leader among Marabastad Informal Traders, Daniel Macheng, said that his heart is content over the project’s approval, and believes it will foster stronger relationships between traders and the metro.

“We’re happy about this project because this issue used to give us sleepless nights. I’m very happy, and my heart is full because there’s progress we can actually see.

Macheng said only 42 people can be registered to sell there. He said he will ensure the right people are registered by giving the metro a list.

Watch here: https://x.com/i/status/2031682501547053514

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