Low turnout of informal traders hampers Johannesburg registration drive

The City of Johannesburg has been ordered by the South Gauteng High Court to verify, register, re-register and allocate trading rights to informal traders by 18 November. The ruling followed a court case brought by the Socio-Economic Rights Institute of South Africa on behalf of affected traders.

Despite the court directive, turnout among informal traders has been low. Only a fraction of those impacted by evictions and removals from trading zones have engaged with the registration process. Many traders report being unaware of the procedures, mistrusting the process or struggling to provide the required documentation.

At sites such as De Villiers Street in the central business district, traders expressed frustration at being removed and instructed to register. One trader said that they had received little guidance on where or how to register and now face barriers to continue trading legally.

The City of Johannesburg has emphasised that the registration is essential to regulate trading, ensure public safety and formalise the sector. Acting Mayor Eunice Mgcina described the ruling as a positive step towards lawful trading and better oversight of informal markets.

However, the low participation rate poses a significant challenge. Experts suggest that the hesitation reflects a lack of trust in municipal processes, concerns about losing informal status and the administrative burden of documentation. With just two weeks to complete the process, there is concern that many traders will remain outside the system and vulnerable to future enforcement actions.

The Socio-Economic Rights Institute welcomed the court order but highlighted that accessibility is key. A spokesperson said that if traders cannot participate fully, the objective of formalising the informal economy will be undermined.