Rustenburg Executive Mayor Addresses Informal Traders’ Concerns at Taxi Rank Meeting

Executive Mayor of Rustenburg, Shiela Mabale-Huma, along with the Speaker of the North West Provincial Legislature, Sussana Dantjie, convened a crucial meeting with the Rustenburg Informal Traders and their Forum at the Rustenburg Taxi Rank today Wednesday – 22 November 2023. The aim was to address various issues affecting their businesses and overall well-being.

The meeting was a responsive move by the Executive Mayor following a formal request. One of the primary concerns discussed was the presence of unregistered informal traders who were found to be in violation of local by-laws. Additionally, the alarming issue of illegal drug sales in the vicinity of the taxi rank was brought to the forefront. The informal traders articulated the necessity for permits to ensure compliance, and they emphasized the need for additional stalls to accommodate and foster the growth of their businesses.

During the meeting, the Executive Mayor personally conducted an in loco inspection of the taxi rank’s electricity infrastructure, which had fallen victim to vandalism. Swift action was taken to repair the damages, demonstrating the municipality’s commitment to ensuring a safe and functional environment for traders and commuters alike.

Another infrastructure concern addressed by Mayor Mabale-Huma was a blocked drain at the taxi rank. She assured the traders that the issue would be promptly attended to, underlining the municipality’s dedication to resolving both immediate and long-term challenges faced by the informal trading community.

As the discussions unfolded, it became evident that fostering a collaborative approach between the municipality and the informal traders was crucial for sustainable solutions. The meeting ended on a positive note, with commitments from both parties to work together towards creating an environment that supports the growth of local businesses while maintaining order and compliance with regulations.

The Rustenburg Local Municipality’s engagement with the informal trading community reflects a proactive stance in addressing the concerns of its residents. This collaborative effort is expected to yield positive results, promoting economic development and enhancing the overall quality of life for Rustenburg’s vibrant informal trading sector.