Cape Town’s iconic market, the Green Point Flea Market, is ready to reclaim its place in the heart of the city following a 15-year hiatus, and according to the organisers patrons are in for a treat.
The market that was started in the ’80s was shut in 2009 due to the development of the Cape Town Stadium precinct.
Rosheda Muller, chair of the Green Point Market Traders, said Sunday 11 May will see the revival of a local event.
“We left there more than a decade ago and we are elated to be back. Many of the historical traders are coming back. We used to sleep in our vans overnight to hold our spots, because we were 1 000 traders at the time. Sunday is going to be so emotional and historical.”
Muller is also the president of the National Informal Traders Alliance of South Africa (Nitasa).
“We sought the help of the Legal Resource Centre to assist us in our appeal to return to the stadium precinct. For the past three years they have been working with us, and we are so grateful that we reached a settlement without litigation,” said Muller.
Muller added that the market would take place in the P4 parking area and could accommodate about 300 traders. “It is a major achievement for us as local traders who have fought so hard to get back into that historic place where we traded decades ago.”
The Sunday market will return on the 11th and will be run each Sunday until July, except when big events take place at the stadium.
Muller said people could look forward to items such as Cape Malay foods, crafts and many other locally manufactured products.
More than 150 traders can be expected on the day.
“It is all about creating an economic opportunity for informal small businesses,” said Muller. “We are calling on the community to support us. Bring your mothers out and come and join us in the celebration of the return to the stadium.”
Shamiela Edwards (67) said started as a vendor over 20 years ago to put food on the table for her five children.
“I got divorced so I had to find work. I sell South African manufactured socks.”Edwards said she is emotional about returning.”I want to cry just thinking about it. It’s been a long time. I can’t explain how excited I am. I can’t wait for Sunday.”
The Manenberg senior said she has a passion for the community and started a soup kitchen in her area to keep vulnerable people fed.
