SASOLBURG – Zamdela township is buzzing with excitement after the grand unveiling of the R5m revamped Kgodisho Informal Trading Stalls.

Once a rundown trading patch with crumbling structures and harsh working conditions, the site has now been rebirthed as a sleek, modern, and dignified economic centre.

The unveiling was made possible by all funding through Seriti New Vaal Colliery’s Social and Labour Plan for 2020–2025.

December 5 marked more than just the cutting of a ribbon. It marked a powerful reclaiming of pride, purpose, and business potential for the dozens of informal traders whose livelihoods depend on the space.

Community members, traders, and local leaders came out in full force to witness the moment.
The event was graced by Metsimaholo Executive Mayor Jack Malindi, who used the platform to reaffirm the municipality’s commitment to uplifting local businesses. He was joined by Members of the Mayoral Committee, Lebohang Makhefu (Finance and IDP) and Angy Mofokeng (Special Programmes), as well as representatives from Seriti, the Department of Mineral Resources, municipal officials, and union stakeholders.

Their collective attendance highlighted the strong partnerships that drive meaningful social and economic upliftment in communities such as Zamdela. The R5m refurbishment represents far more than infrastructural improvement; it is a strategic investment in restoring dignity, creating opportunity, and strengthening the informal economy.

The upgraded stalls are cleaner, safer, more attractive to customers, and better organised to support growing microenterprises.

For traders who have long endured challenges in their trading environment, these improvements bring renewed hope.

The upgraded space will not only attract more customers but also foster a supportive and collaborative ecosystem among informal traders, enabling them to empower one another and strengthen their respective businesses.

During his address, Malindi issued a heartfelt appeal to the traders to take ownership of the newly refurbished facility.

He urged them to keep the trading area clean, safeguard it against vandalism, and use it fully to grow and sustain their businesses.

His call served as a powerful reminder that while the municipality and its partners have provided the infrastructure, its future success lies in the hands of the traders who depend on it daily.