The dilapidated Kwantozonke Market Centre situated at the end of Madeira Street in the Mthatha CBD, which had become an eyesore due to its deteriorating state, is finally getting a much-needed facelift.
King Sabata Dalindyebo (KSD) Local Municipality executive mayor, Nyaniso Nelani, recently announced that the municipality, through funding from the Department of Small Business Development, has appointed a contractor to carry out renovations to the facility.
The local municipality says the appointed contractor for the project, Abenguni Engineering, commenced work on March 29.
The project has been allocated a budget of R11.7 million, and the upgrades are anticipated to be completed in six months.
“The market is one of the historic monuments in Mthatha, and a viable platform for driving economic growth.
“The upgrades have been approved by the Department of Small Business Development and an investment of R11.7 million has been allocated to renovate and enhance the centre,” explained municipal spokesperson, Sonwabo Mampoza.
Mampoza added that the facelift will include completely changing the roof coverings, paintwork, floor coverings, plumbing works, installation of burglar-proof doors, digital outdoor advertising, signboards and new furniture.
External upgrades include paving, a parking area, upgrades to the drainage system, as well as fencing.
Mampoza says the project will also create about 20 temporary job opportunities for locals that will be employed through the Expanded Public Works Programme during the construction period.
“The Kwantozonke Market plays an important role in achieving the economic objectives of the municipality. The upgrades to the facility will bring real change to the market, and not only will it encourage local economic development but will also assist the municipality to realise its vision of becoming a metropolitan city,” said KSD executive mayor Nyaniso Nelani.
The municipality says traders have been provided with temporary mobile shelters for their relocation whilst the renovations are underway.
