Informal traders in Dzanani say they are hopeful that long-awaited improvements to their working conditions are finally within reach, despite continued delays to the R32 million Dzanani Taxi Rank project.
Construction on the taxi rank began in 2023 and was initially expected to be completed within a year. More than three years later, the project remains unfinished, with the municipality saying construction is about 60% complete.
Municipal tender records show the contract was awarded to Chauke Business Enterprise for R32 million on 20 February 2023.
For traders who have spent years operating under difficult conditions, the delays have been a source of both frustration and hope.
One informal trader, who has worked at the site for more than 20 years and asked not to be named, said she became emotional when she learned the taxi rank was nearing completion.
“We have been waiting for this day for so long. We work in the rain and under the hot sun. Sometimes our goods get damaged and we lose money,” she said.
Without proper stalls, traders have had to transport stock daily and operate without adequate shelter or storage facilities.
The trader said the new market stalls could significantly improve business conditions and provide a more dignified working environment.
“Customers will know where to find us every day, and that can help bring more business. We are hardworking people and we deserve a proper place to work,” she said.
Concerns about the project resurfaced earlier this year when residents confronted municipal officials during a tense meeting at the Makhado Vehicle Testing Station.
Community members questioned the quality of work and alleged that some infrastructure appeared incomplete or already deteriorating despite significant public expenditure.
Community member Ipfi Mushanganyisi said residents were pleased that the project was now progressing after years of delays.
“We are also encouraged to see that the hiring of local community members has become more balanced and inclusive. This is after we raised concerns about the project,” he said.
Residents, however, continue to demand clarity on when the project will be completed and whether the finished facility will meet the standards originally promised.
Responding to questions, municipal spokesperson Mpho Rathando said the project remains under construction and has been affected by several disruptions.
“The project experienced delays due to disruptions from the construction mafia, community interference in the recruitment of local labour, unrest related to subcontracting demands, adverse weather conditions and delays in the supply of materials,” Rathando said.
He said most challenges have since been resolved, except for ongoing rainfall, which continues to affect construction activities.
According to the municipality, no variation orders have been granted, although extensions of time were approved due to community unrest, weather-related delays, supply chain challenges and disruptions linked to construction mafia activities.
The municipality said R11.1 million has been paid to the contractor to date.
Several attempts to obtain comment from Adam Genius Chauke, director of Chauke Business Enterprise, were unsuccessful.