ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MEDIA INVITATION
ETHEKWINI LAUNCHES PHASE ONE OF THE R29 MILLION MANSEL ROAD MARKET DEVELOPMENT TO UNLOCK OPPORTUNITIES FOR LOCAL TRADERS
The eThekwini Municipality will mark another milestone in transforming Durban's informal economy on Friday, 7 August 2026, with the official launch of Phase One of the R29 million Mansel Road Market Development, coupled with the handover of trading permits to 53 newly selected Church Walk traders.
The development forms part of the Municipality's ongoing investment to modernise trading infrastructure, create sustainable livelihood opportunities and build an inclusive local economy where informal businesses can thrive.
Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Thembo Ntuli, said the informal economy remains one of the City's strongest economic pillars, supporting thousands of households and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs across eThekwini.
"Our informal traders are not only business owners, but they are also job creators, breadwinners and drivers of local economic growth. Through strategic investments such as the Mansel Road Market Development, we are creating safer, dignified and business friendly trading spaces that enable entrepreneurs to grow their businesses while improving the lives of their families," added Councillor Ntuli.
The upgraded facility offers improved trading infrastructure and ablution facilities, as well as maintenance and cleaning services. The permit handover will enable newly selected traders to operate legally and build sustainable businesses.
Members of the media are invited to attend the official launch of the upgraded trading facility and the handover of permits.
Details are as follows:
Date: Friday, 7 August 2026
Venue: Mansel Road Market, Durban
Time: 09h00
RSVP: simphiwe.dlamini@durban.gov.za
ENDS
Issued by the eThekwini Municipality's Marketing and Communications Directorate
