In many of South Africa’s townships and urban corners, street vendors are the heartbeat of the local economy. From selling fresh produce and snacks to offering repair services and crafts, these entrepreneurs keep our communities running — often under the harshest of conditions. At Rakutu Trading & Projects, we believe it’s time to give them the dignity, safety, and professional presence they deserve.
The Problem: Makeshift Stalls, Limited Growth
Too often, informal traders are forced to operate from deteriorating tin shacks, umbrellas, or even just crates on sidewalks. These setups expose them to weather, theft, and limit their ability to expand or build customer trust. They deserve more — not just as workers, but as business owners with dreams.
Our Solution: Purpose-Built Structures for Vendors
Rakutu steps in with custom container-based units and steel frame kiosks that are:
- Weatherproof and secure
- Customizable based on vendor needs (e.g. space, storage, branding)
- Affordable and relocatable
- Designed for long-term use and dignity
Each unit is a stepping stone — not just to better business, but to pride and empowerment.
“These aren’t just stalls. These are micro-enterprises waiting to bloom,” says our Managing Director. “We don’t just build structures. We build opportunity.”
Real Change in Real Places
Whether it’s the transformation of township markets like in Bushbuckridge or infrastructure support in Modimolle, our projects reflect our commitment to uplift the everyday South African hustler.
📍Case in Point: After replacing rusted shack stalls with safe container units, vendors in one market saw a 40% rise in foot traffic. Clean, safe, professional-looking stalls attract more customers — and respect.
Why This Matters
- Supports job creation
- Promotes local commerce
- Encourages reinvestment into communities
- Elevates the image of informal trading
We’re bridging the gap between informal hustle and formal opportunity.
Join the Movement
Whether you’re a municipality, NPO, or private organization, let’s work together to give dignity back to vendors — one structure at a time.
📌 Learn more about our work: