​The City of Cape Town has hosted 23 sessions with informal traders where they could raise concerns about the challenges they face in their trading environment. This forum also presented an ideal opportunity for traders to get answers to their frequently asked questions. The information gathered was most valuable and has been used to develop area-specific operational plans.

Due to the month-end busy period, a small group of traders took time out to attend the round table discussion. Overall, the traders expressed their appreciation and happiness with the City. They were also very complimentary of their district area coordinator and her regular engagement with them. The City shared information on the infrastructure improvements that are envisaged for the area as well as the economic development opportunities that are available.

The informal trading area in Plattekloof, Edgemead, Monte Vista and Goodwood encompasses approximately 50 traders who offer a range of products such as fresh fruit and vegetables, wood, instant lawn and furniture, to mention a few.

‘It has been a marathon couple of months for the team from the Economic Development Department. There has been a lot of valuable input from the traders that gives us a clear indication of the concerns on the ground that need to be addressed in our planning. The engagements were well received and appreciated by the traders. We will continue to work with the traders to look at how to create a more conducive environment for them to trade, in line with our commitment to building a city of economic opportunity. We will work with the traders to help make progress possible in their lives,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Tourism, Events and Economic Development, Councillor Garreth Bloor.

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