Agreement Mkhari 
By Jannifer Libisi
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, members of the African National Congress (ANC) in Ward 40, Mamelodi East, have stepped up to support local informal traders by transforming a former dumping site into a dedicated trading space.
The site, which had long been used as an illegal dumping area, was cleaned up by ANC members after receiving numerous complaints during door-to-door community visits. Recognizing the need for economic upliftment, they saw an opportunity to convert the area into a cleaner, safer space for local entrepreneurs to sell their goods.
Speaking to Vutivi Business News, ANC member Cristofer Skhosane said the idea was driven by the community’s concerns. “We decided to listen to the complaints and clean this space with hopes that it will benefit the community and allow informal traders to sell in a healthy environment,” he said.
Despite their efforts, Skhosane expressed concern that residents might continue dumping waste at the site. “I can’t guarantee people will stop dumping here, but I hope they see the hard work we’ve put in,” he added.
The initiative offers more than just physical space. By creating a designated trading area, informal traders will have better access to services such as waste management, security, and potential financial support. These services can help them grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods.
Abongile Mooi, a trader who used to sell near the dumping site, welcomed the cleanup. “That dumping is the reason I stopped selling. Who would buy next to an untidy place? If they remove all the rubbish, I might go back,” she said.
To support the effort, traders operating nearby were asked to contribute funds to buy plastic bags for ongoing cleanup. Tshepang Ranaka, one of the traders, didn’t hesitate. “I donated because I’ll also benefit when I move my stall there. It will help me create more space and sell more goods,” he said.
More than just a marketplace, the new space is seen as a hub of community interaction and entrepreneurship. Traders will be able to offer a range of products—from fresh produce to handmade goods—encouraging both economic activity and community bonding.
Through this initiative, the ANC aims to empower informal traders, promote entrepreneurship, and foster sustainable economic growth in the area.
