The City of Johannesburg's Department of Economic Development and key stakeholders have undertaken a series of coordinated initiatives to strengthen support for informal traders, with a particular focus on spaza shop operators. This initiative aligns with the Township Economies By-Law and the Informal Trading By-Law.
During April 2026, the City actively engaged communities across Region C, including Cosmo City, Bramfischerville, and Doornkop, through a series of workshop sessions aimed at spaza shop owners and informal traders.
The workshops were attended by multiple stakeholders and institutions, including City departments, the Gauteng Office of Consumer Affairs, Liberty and Standard Bank, Gcwalisa and Business Culture, all of whom delivered informative presentations.
This initiative seeks to equip traders with critical information, improve compliance with regulations, and unlock growth opportunities. A strong turnout of traders and business owners demonstrated keen interest, with participants engaging directly with officials on compliance requirements, support programmes, training, and business development opportunities.
According to Benji Seitlhamo, Acting Director for Economic Development Facilitation, the level of participation has been highly encouraging. “We are encouraged by the turnout and the quality of engagements thus far. Business owners are asking relevant questions and showing a clear commitment to becoming compliant."
Key concerns raised by traders include illegal business structures, operating in undesignated areas, and difficulties with documentation requirements. He emphasised the importance of collaboration with stakeholders such as the Department of Home Affairs to address these issues.
The sessions outlined essential requirements for operating legally where informal traders must obtain permission for trading spaces, secure health approvals where food is sold, and register with the Department of Economic Development to be included in its database. The department is currently developing an online registration portal specifically for spaza shop owners and informal traders to support business sustainability and growth.
In addition, traders are required to comply with planning, fire, and environmental health standards before permits can be issued.
Partners such as the Gauteng Office of Consumer Affairs, Standard Bank, and Business Culture highlighted the importance of these workshops in preparing businesses for the upcoming summit.
Written by Thembelihle Radebe
28/04/2026
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