Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Johannes le Grange
During a routine oversight inspection by the Democratic Alliance (DA) on 6 August 2025 at the Matlosana Fresh Produce Market, shocking conditions were uncovered, highlighting the extent of neglect under the ANC-led administration.
There were no functional or clean toilets available for workers or visitors on the market floor, forcing people to resort to unsanitary alternatives. The floor-cleaning machine has been broken for two years, with no effort made to repair it, leaving the market in a filthy state — arguably one of the dirtiest in South Africa.
Only 20% of the fruit ripening refrigeration plant is operational, forcing major suppliers — including some of the largest banana suppliers — to divert their products to other markets. In addition, market agents are now being forced to tender to keep their businesses, without any consultation, placing their contracts with suppliers at risk.
According to the Service Level Agreements, agents must be paid within five days. However, payments are made to the municipality, which repeatedly fails to pay agents on time.
These complaints were formally brought to the attention of MMC, EM Kgang, who has failed to take corrective action. Residents will recall that he replaced former MMC, ML Kodisang, who was found guilty of stealing fuel from the market.
Once ranked 6th out of 21 fresh produce markets nationally, Matlosana has now slipped to 9th place. Vandalism is extensive, not a single door is intact, and security is nearly non-existent.
This begs the question: can the ANC ever correct itself from malpractice, neglect, and corruption? The DA will continue to expose mismanagement, hold the ANC to account, and fight for the restoration of proper service delivery in Matlosana.