Traders’ village in a sorry state
They said that initial funding had been provided by the former municipality, or transitional local council (TLC).
It’s been 17 years since the Gamalakhe Traders’ Village was built.
Once something the town was proud of, it has now been deserted and to make matters worse, vandalised.
Bongani ‘Rasta’ Malanda and Sobhuza Makhaye are among concerned residents in the town who want to see it restored.
They said that initial funding had been provided by the former municipality, or transitional local council (TLC).
It was then taken over by (then) Hibiscus Coast Municipality, which has since been renamed, Ray Nkonyeni.
“A few years ago the village was up-and-running and used for flea markets and such things,” said Mr Malanda.
Their gripe is that, for the past few years, there’s been no activity, other than the vandalism.
“There has been no grass and verge cutting. The roof has caved in, floor tiles have cracked, and electricity cables have been pulled out. The place has been vandalised and criminals have found themselves a home, it seems.”
Malanda and Makhaye said they had tried to clean up the place themselves as pleas for help from the municipality have fallen on deaf ears.
“We want the place to function properly, so that can see people building their businesses and making something for themselves.”
Comment from the municipality has been sought, but none has been forthcoming as of yet.
However, Ward 28 councillor, Victor Bhekithemba Zulu, offered a glimmer of hope.
He said the village may be expanded to provide more people with work opportunities.
“Renovations are in the pipeline in the next financial year,” he said.
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