EThekwini balances informal trade support and regulation

ETHEKWINI Municipality has in recent times faced criticism for enforcing bylaws against illegal trading in parts of the Durban Central Business District and surrounding areas.

- THEMBO NTULI

WHEN applied fairly and consistently, law enforcement is not anti-poor, says the writer. | SBU MFEKA File

(SBU MFEKA File)

Images of confiscated goods and law enforcement operations are frequently shared on social media, sparking public debate and, at times, portraying the City as harsh toward vulnerable traders.This narrative, however, overlooks an important reality. EThekwini is not only regulating the informal economy; it is one of the few metros in South Africa that has built a comprehensive framework of policy, infrastructure and financial support to grow and protect the sector. EThekwini is the only metropolitan municipality in the country with a dedicated Informal Trading Bylaw supported by an Informal Economy Policy. The policy was strengthened through a review in 2023.

These amendments go beyond regulation. They modernise informal trade, align operations with national legislation, improve health and safety standards, and raise awareness of the laws that affect traders. In this context, regulation serves as governance that protects traders, consumers and public spaces alike. As this year marks the end of the current five-year local government term, the City reflects on a period during which its structured informal economy development programme was expanded and trader support mechanisms were strengthened.