Viable News Team 
Marabastad, Tshwane The City of Tshwane has temporarily shut down retail operations in the Marabastad trading market following a major enforcement operation targeting unlicensed businesses.
On Thursday, city officials—joined by the Department of Home Affairs and members of the police—conducted inspections across the market to assess traders’ compliance with local regulations. The sweep led to the inspection of 43 businesses, several of which were found to be operating without valid permits.
According to city authorities, two businesses were disconnected from illegal electricity supply lines, while a total of seven businesses and 20 trading stalls were ordered to close with immediate effect.
Tshwane Executive Mayor Nasiphi Moya confirmed the crackdown stemmed from repeated violations of the city’s street trading bylaws.
“Operating without the necessary permits is a violation of municipal regulations,” Moya said. “The closure of the Marabastad market was a necessary measure recommended by our economic development and spatial planning department.”
While the decision has sparked criticism, Moya defended the move, stressing the need to uphold health, safety, and legal standards within the city.
“These regulations are not meant to hinder entrepreneurship but to ensure a safe and orderly environment for both residents and traders,” she explained. “The mayoral committee remains committed to maintaining a clean and secure city.”
Moya urged informal traders to engage with the city’s economic development and spatial planning office in Pretoria for guidance on acquiring the appropriate permits. She clarified that a lease agreement between a trader and a landowner does not constitute legal permission to operate.
Prospective traders are also required to attend a mandatory workshop on street trading, after which they must submit a certified copy of their ID, proof of rental agreement, and fulfill health and fire safety compliance processes. Only upon meeting these conditions can a certificate of acceptance be issued.
The recent Marabastad operation forms part of a broader initiative led by Moya since assuming office. Over the past week, Tshwane authorities have inspected 341 premises citywide, with 166 found to be noncompliant. The city issued 135 statutory notices and 29 fines totaling R125,000.
“This is an ongoing effort to bring order and legal compliance to all trading zones in the city,” Moya said.
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