The eThekwini Municipality will on Friday officially launch Phase One of the R29 million Mansel Road Market Development and hand over trading permits to 53 newly selected Church Walk traders, marking another milestone in efforts to strengthen Durban's informal economy.
The project forms part of the municipality's ongoing investment to modernise informal trading infrastructure, create sustainable livelihood opportunities and build a more inclusive local economy, where informal businesses can thrive.
Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee, Thembo Ntuli, said the informal economy remains one of the city's strongest economic pillars, supporting thousands of households and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs across eThekwini.
"Our informal traders are not only business owners, but they are also job creators, breadwinners and drivers of local economic growth. Through strategic investments such as the Mansel Road Market Development, we are creating safer, dignified and business-friendly trading spaces that enable entrepreneurs to grow their businesses while improving the lives of their families," Ntuli said.
The upgraded facility features improved trading infrastructure, upgraded ablution facilities, as well as dedicated maintenance and cleaning services designed to provide traders with a safer and more conducive business environment.
The municipality said the allocation of trading permits will enable newly selected Church Walk traders to operate legally while supporting the growth and sustainability of their businesses. – SAnews.gov.za
