Informal traders fight for livelihoods as Joburg cracks down on CBD businesses

The City of Joburg is facing fierce backlash and a High Court challenge after a campaign to "clean up" the CBD led to the removal of numerous unauthorised informal traders.

Some traders said the prohibition against operating their businesses in undesignated areas has left their families destitute.

On Friday, the dispute escalated to the High Court, where the Socio-Economic Rights Institute (SERI) and the City of Johannesburg are facing off over the municipality’s decision to take action against the traders.

ALSO READ: CoJ vs informal traders: Operation Dududla says bylaws must be respected

Outside the courthouse, dozens of protesters have gathered, some defending the traders' right to work, while others support the city's push for order.

Matron Mhlanga is one of the informal traders severely affected after the City removed her from a location that had sustained her family for years. She said the city seems unconcerned about her livelihood and that of many others who are now unable to earn an income.

"We are not waiting for tenders to make a living. We are selling in the streets and making a living," Mhlanga stated, emphasising their self-reliance.

"We are not waiting for grants or RDP houses."

However, Operation Dudula's Sibongile Maseko argued that the traders must first adhere to municipal regulations and apply for trading permits.

"It only happens here in South Africa," Maseko said, referring to the practice.

"The South Africans that want to trade must approach the city and apply for those permits. It’s illegality and we cannot allow that."

The City of Joburg maintains that unauthorised trading has significantly contributed to the deterioration and degradation of the CBD environment.

It further said it would not be pressured to allow informal traders to operate without restriction.

Mayor Dada Morero noted that bylaw enforcement will continue despite the ongoing pushback.

“There are processes in any government. Only when you register, we’ll give you a stall. If there is no stall available, you have to wait. There are processes and everybody is required to respect the law.”

JOIN US ON WHATSAPP

Stay ahead of the story: Join our WhatsApp channel today.

Want breaking news at your fingertips, the moment it happens? Our WhatsApp Channel is the fastest way to stay connected with the stories that matter most.

From breaking news alerts to exclusive stories, analysis and must-read features - you’ll get it all directly on your phone.

Joining is simple.

Just click Follow on our WhatsApp Channel and stay informed.