City of Mbombela improves work stations of kerbside barbershops

The City of Mbombela’s (CoM) Department of Local Economic Development recently contributed to improve the work stations of kerbside barbershop businesses in the city.

Led by MMC Innocent Lusenga, the department officially handed over newly demarcated work stations and brand-new gazebos on September 12. The barbers are located behind the SARS building in the CBD.
More than 20 barbers who had previously operated without proper shelter, benefited from the initiative. On a daily basis, these men can be seen cutting, styling and shaving hair and beards in the City.

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During an interview with Lowvelder Express, one of the beneficiaries, Sibusi Mabuza, said they appreciate the contribution made by the CoM towards their businesses.
From Pienaar, Mabuza started cutting hair in 2005. “We are happy, and this initiative has made a difference. We will no longer do our work in direct sunlight.”

Mabuza said load-shedding affects their businesses negatively. “When we experience load-shedding, we cannot charge our batteries and we need assistance with a solar system. If get this, we will be able to have smooth operations. We are happy that the municipality said it would assist us where it can,” he said.

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The CoM’s spokesperson, Joseph Ngala, said, “The donation to these small businesses is the fulfilment of the commitment made by the City when they displaced the haircutting business away from food-catering businesses within Mbombela. The department is also in the process of augmenting new working equipment for these businesses.

“We appreciate the Ligwalagwala FM’s midday show presenter, Sweet-Mike Singwane, who was one of the first clients on the day of the handover, and all the clients who continue to utilise these services.”