Business owners in Salfin, Boksburg, lived under the constant threat of crime, with break-ins, theft and violence making it difficult to survive.
Between 2022 and 2025, many entrepreneurs watched their hard work disappear as criminals targeted their shops and customers stayed away out of fear.
However, following a community protest held on June 30, 2026, many business owners say conditions have improved, bringing renewed hope for local businesses. The date was set by anti-illegal immigration groups as a deadline for those who are in the country without documentation to leave. But in Salfin, residents also marched for a different cause.
Tuck shop owner Sipho Dlamini remembers a time when operating his business felt like a daily struggle.
“We were constantly worried about criminals. There were days when I had to close earlier because it simply wasn’t safe. We lost customers because people were afraid to come here, especially in the evenings,” Dlamini said.
He said repeated incidents of theft affected both his income and confidence.
“We worked hard to build this business, but crime kept pushing us backwards. Every break-in meant replacing stolen stock and starting again,” he said.
Tavern owner Lindiwe Nkosi said crime also forced her to shorten her trading hours.
“I couldn’t keep my tavern open past 7 pm because customers were scared to stay out late. Business was slow, and some weekends were completely quiet because people preferred staying at home,” Nkosi said.
She said things began improving after the June 30 protest, when residents united to demand action against crime.
“Since then, we have noticed a big difference. There is more community involvement, people are looking out for each other, and customers have started coming back. We finally feel like our businesses have a chance to grow again,” Nkosi said.
Community leader Nomsa Mthembu, who also joined the protest, said the march was about protecting both residents and businesses.
“This was about protecting our livelihoods and creating a safer community. Small businesses are the backbone of Salfin, and when crime destroys them, families lose their income,” she said.
Mthembu said residents strengthened neighbourhood safety efforts after the protest by working together, improving communication with local authorities and encouraging community patrols.
“Our message was simple, we wanted a community where people could work, shop and live
without fear,” she said.
Residents have also noticed positive changes. One resident said it now feels much safer to visit local businesses.
“There was a time when you couldn’t even walk to the tuck shop after dark because you feared being robbed. Now we feel much safer, and it’s encouraging to see businesses busy again,” the resident said.
The return of customers in Salfin represents more than increased sales. It symbolises hope that years of fear are finally giving way to opportunity. They believe continued cooperation between residents, businesses and community leaders will help ensure that Salfin remains a safe place where local businesses can continue to grow and thrive.
