After Marabastad market closes, Tshwane issues trading certificates

Official trading certificates have been issued by the City of Tshwane following the temporary closure of Marabastad's retail market in August due to vendors' lack of an acceptable food handling certificate.

Political parties and civil groups criticised the temporary closure, claiming the city was destroying the livelihoods of the informal traders. 

The South African Union Council of Independent Churches called the market closure a “travesty of justice,” while the DA warned of disinvestment, lost investor confidence and massive job losses. 

The Unified South African Traders vowed to resist any future Tshwane crackdown on non‑compliant businesses.

The Gauteng High Court stepped in, ordering traders to file the necessary applications by August 8, 2025, which suspended the closure. 

Municipal spokesperson Lindela Mashigo said the city is thrilled to announce the remarkable turnaround in Marabastad’s trading and business zone, adding that the people‑centred approach has restored order, safety and compliance.   

“Contrary to perceptions in some quarters, the city’s approach to addressing non-compliance with food safety and trading regulations has never been punitive in nature. Rather, it has been corrective and developmental, focused on building a culture of lawful, sustainable and responsible trading,” he said.

He said businesses that meet food safety standards, hygiene and permit rules are now enjoying greater market stability and improved customer confidence.

“This renewed business confidence is helping to reposition Marabastad as one of the capital’s most vibrant commercial nodes. The area has evolved from being a site of frequent by-law breaches into a regulated and prosperous marketplace that balances economic opportunity with public welfare,” Mashigo said.

According to him, traders’ compliance with municipal bylaws helps the economy to grow and when the city provides fair oversight jobs are protected. 

“To support this goal, the city has intensified its outreach and education efforts. Regular inspections are complemented by workshops and training programmes designed to improve understanding of municipal by-laws, health standards and business management practices. Trader associations have been key partners in this journey, helping to translate policy into practice and encouraging self-regulation among their members,” he said.

He said compliant Marabastad traders now hold official trading certificates, which is “a visible affirmation of their lawful standing and commitment to responsible entrepreneurship”. 

“These certifications do more than legitimise operations; they build trust between traders, consumers and the city, ensuring that economic benefits flow equitably through the community,” he said.

MMC for Economic Development & Spatial Planning, Sarah Mabotsa, previously stressed that traders must attend a compulsory street‑trading workshop, comply with fire, health and safety rules, and obtain trading licences to run a business in Tshwane.

rapula.moatshe@inl.co.za