Spaza shop owners and informal traders are encouraged to attend the City of Johannesburg's ongoing regional workshops taking place this week. The sessions continue on Thursday, 23 April 2026, at Braamfischerville Multipurpose Centre in Region C2, followed by another engagement on Friday at Doornkop Community Hall.
Led by the City's Economic Development Department (DED), the Spaza Shop and Informal Traders workshops form part of preparations for the upcoming Spaza Shop and Informal Traders Expo Summit scheduled for 17 and 18 September. The initiative aims to equip traders with critical information, improve compliance, and unlock growth opportunities.
The programme has already drawn strong interest across the city. At a recent session held at Cosmo City Hall in Region C1, traders and business owners turned out in large numbers to engage directly with officials on compliance requirements, support programmes, and business development opportunities.
According to Benji Seitlhamo, Acting Director for Economic Development Facilitation, the level of participation has been encouraging. He noted that many attendees are eager to formalise their businesses and access available support.
“We are encouraged by the turnout and the quality of engagement. Business owners are asking relevant questions and showing a clear commitment to becoming compliant," he said.
Seitlhamo acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly around navigating compliance processes. Issues raised by traders include illegal business structures, operating in undesignated areas, and documentation requirements. He emphasised the importance of collaboration with stakeholders such as the Department of Home Affairs to address these concerns.
The workshops also outline key requirements for operating legally. Informal traders must obtain permission for trading spaces, secure health approvals where food is sold, and register with the Department of Economic Development. Spaza shop owners are required to meet planning, fire, and environmental health standards before receiving permits.
Similar levels of engagement were recorded during a previous session in Meadowlands, Soweto, where traders sought clarity on compliance and available support measures.
Business stakeholders partnering with the City have welcomed the initiative. Tulasizwe Bonga Mchunu, CEO and Founder of Business Culture, said the workshops play a crucial role in preparing businesses for the upcoming summit by promoting compliance, innovation, and access to funding opportunities.
Bheki Twala, Founder and President of the Township Economic Commission SA, highlighted the importance of accessible information for township businesses. He said the workshops provide a valuable platform for direct engagement with departments responsible for by-laws, planning, and health compliance.
The City continues to encourage traders to attend the remaining sessions and use these platforms to strengthen their businesses and access opportunities for sustainable growth.
Written by Zingiswa Mndayi
22/04/2026
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