ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ETHEKWINI MUNICIPALITY LAUNCHES MULTIMILLION-RAND LUCKY MNGWENGWE TRADERS PRECINCT TO BOOST INFORMAL ECONOMY
The eThekwini Municipality, through the Economic Development Directorate, officially launched the Lucky Mngwengwe Traders Precinct on Friday, 04 September 2026, at the Boxer Node on Meyiwa Main Road in Mpumalanga, Hammarsdale.
The multimillion-rand investment introduces modernised infrastructure designed to formalise, protect, and grow the local informal economy while honouring a legacy of dedicated public service.
The brand-new precinct provides approximately 75 upgraded trading spaces, comprising 23 secure containers and 52 trading tables.
The development directly targets existing informal traders who previously operated under harsh and ineffective conditions.
It equips them with essential operational support, including dedicated storage facilities, cleaning services, ablution blocks, and around-the-clock security.
The site will accommodate a diverse marketplace of vendors selling fast food, cooked meals, fresh fruit and vegetables, clothing, and poultry.
The precinct is named in honour of the late Councillor Lucky Nhlanhla Mngwengwe, a deeply respected leader who was sworn into office in 2006 and served three terms.
During his tenure on the Municipality’s Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Mngwengwe championed milestone projects like the Hammarsdale Junction Mall, the Mpumalanga Museum, and critical local housing developments.
The precinct directly mirrors Councillor Mngwengwe's foundational belief that public development must prioritise community needs and dignity.
Economic Development Chairperson Thembo Ntuli noted: “The informal economy is a vital pillar of our local economy. It creates livelihoods, supports households, and opens doors for those struggling to enter the formal market. Supporting this sector means supporting thousands of families. We want an informal economy that is supported, recognised, and structurally positioned to grow.”
The Hammarsdale launch follows hot on the heels of the Mansel Road informal economy development project, which opened last month in the heart of the Durban Central Business District (CBD).
The infrastructure rollouts are part of a broader, city-wide strategy.
To further cement its commitment to micro-enterprises, the Municipality will host a comprehensive two-day Informal Economy Summit in October.
The summit will bring together traders, government representatives, and strategic partners to map out future development priorities and pioneer innovative operational solutions for the sector.
Traders and community members are urged to take pride in the new facility, protect the infrastructure, and utilise the space as a sustainable gateway for business growth and family support.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate
