MEDIA RELEASE 20 October 2006 TRADING IN KLIPTOWN The process to allocate traders stalls and facilities at the Walter Sisulu Square in Kliptown began in August 2006. Traders were formally requested to sign lease agreements with the Metropolitan Trading Company (MTC) and take occupation within the facility. Occupation was initially delayed because traders were reluctant to sign lease agreements. At all MTC facilities traders have to sign leases that stipulate conditions of trade, rental of stalls and consequences of non-payment. Rentals differ according to the size of the stall. Rental of stalls is also not market related and thus heavily subsidised. Another delaying factor during this period was the co hosting of the ABSA Joburg Soweto Festival in September 2006 at the Square. This further delayed occupation coupled to the maintenance work currently being carried out as a result of the Festival. As soon as the work is completed traders will be able to occupy their respective stalls in the Market. Two hundred traders have to date been allocated space and more are expected to sign lease agreements. Traders are also informed of the applicable trading bylaws that are enforced by the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD). MTC runs its facilities in accordance with the Health and Safety Bylaws. The Environmental Health Department accordingly does regular inspections of facilities for compliance. The selling of livestock, raw meat, fish and similarly categorized products is prohibited. In future MTC markets could be built with livestock pens and cold storage facilities but this will require investigation and discussion with all stakeholders. Whilst the City encourages trade and directly involves itself in the economic development of traders, this has to happen in a controlled environment. Earlier this year, the City invested R1.4million in a skills development programme for informal traders called "Grow Your Own Business". Five hundred informal traders enrolled for the free 14-week business course at Wits University in February 2006 and successfully graduated in August 2006. The objective of the course is to develop traders to eventually move into the formal sector. This project is part of the City's vision to effectively transform Johannesburg into a globally competitive world-class African City by the year 2030. As part of its investment and economic development programme, Joburg creates opportunities and facilitates the development of the informal sector – a vital role-player in the achievement of the city's main goal. Ends Issued on behalf of Councillor Parks Tau, Member of the Mayoral Committee, by: Virgil James Spokesperson Public Liaison Telephone: 011 407 7226 Facsimile: 011 403 3494 Cell: 082 467 9415 Email: virgilj@joburg.org.za