Bo-Kaap Market celebrates local culture and enterprise

The City of Cape Town marked the official opening of the Bo-Kaap Market on 14 and 15 February 2026. While the market has been trading since December 2025, this weekend formally recognised it as a permanent public trading space that supports local entrepreneurs and reflects the unique heritage of the Bo-Kaap.

Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis paid a visit to the market together with Alderman James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth.

“It was great fun visiting the bustling Bo-Kaap Market as Capetonians and tourists came out to enjoy this iconic part of our city,” said the Mayor. “We are especially pleased for the traders themselves, who are benefiting from upgraded infrastructure and City support to make this market a success. Informal trading is a key economic sector for our city, which we are backing with a R270-million investment in upgrades for trading spaces across the metro over the current three-year budget to deliver a major boost for traders.”

Alderman Vos said the development of quality public trading infrastructure across the city remains a key priority. “Investing in public trading infrastructure is about creating business-friendly spaces that give traders dignity and customers a welcoming experience. Markets like the Bo-Kaap Market add real value to communities. They support livelihoods, strengthen local businesses and ensure public trading contributes positively to the character and economy of an area.

“We will continue rolling out these improvements at key locations in Cape Town to build confidence and support sustainable local enterprise.

Commented Francine Higham, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health and councillor for Ward 77: “What a special occasion celebrating the official opening of the Bo-Kaap Market, a space shaped by the community, for the community. More than just a market, this is a place of opportunity where local entrepreneurs can grow their businesses, residents can support local, and visitors can experience the flavours, creativity and culture that make Bo-Kaap so special.”

The Bo-Kaap Market provides a platform for local food traders, creatives and small businesses to trade in a well-managed, accessible space while sharing the culture and traditions that make the area so distinctive.

Traders include Nafeesah Dante of Bo-Kaap’s Finest, known for her Cape Malay inspired dishes, and Ammarah Lakay of Bo-Kaap’s Roots: Painted Rainbows, whose locally made products celebrate the colour and resilience of the Bo-Kaap community. They are joined by a range of longstanding and emerging traders offering food, fresh produce, clothing, accessories, plants and local memorabilia.

The Bo-Kaap Market will continue as a regular weekend market, strengthening opportunities for local traders and providing a consistent space for community connection and economic participation.