Thami Dhladhla
The City of Johannesburg has reaffirmed its commitment to creating an enabling environment for township businesses, ensuring they are integrated into the City’s broader economic agenda. This was underscored during a recent virtual engagement on the draft Township Economies By-law.
Cllr Aubrey Mhlongo, Section 79 Chairperson for Economic Development, said the purpose of the engagements is to give stakeholders a platform to shape the by-law and influence the future of township economies.
Presenting the draft, Benji Seitlhamo from the City of Johannesburg’s Economic Development Department highlighted focus areas such as business operations, trading spaces, infrastructure, permits, compliance, law enforcement, waste management and economic empowerment.
“This bylaw is about creating opportunities and building fairness. Its purpose is to formalise informal businesses, harmonise the business ecosystem, promote legal compliance and awareness, support youth, women and small enterprises,” said Seitlhamo.
He stressed that the by-law aims to formalise informal businesses, promote compliance, and support youth, women and small enterprises. Access to funding, markets, capacity-building programmes and public-private partnerships are also prioritised, with digital transformation set to be introduced into township operations.
Residents raised concerns about corruption, spaza shop registration, informal trading permits and illegal business activity. Soweto Business Access chairperson Mphuthi Mphuthi questioned enforcement, given allegations of City officials’ misconduct. Seitlhamo urged stakeholders to report corruption to Group Forensic Investigation Services, SAPS, JMPD or Economic Development.
The by-law requires township businesses to be registered and licensed, adhere to trading hours, avoid counterfeit goods, source legally, and comply with waste management and safety standards.
Further stakeholder engagements will take place across Johannesburg between August and September 2025. Residents and businesses are encouraged to participate in shaping this important policy.
SOURCED FROM THE JOBURG WEBSITE.
