The Citizen (KZN)

Business booms for wheelbarro­w and car owners

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Business was booming for people who owned cars, trolleys and wheelbarro­ws in Olivenhout­bosch, Centurion, on Saturday.

As thousands of residents queued for food parcels, they used the opportunit­y to charge people to transport their food parcels home.

The Mahlasedi Foundation has been handing out food parcels over the past few days outside Walter Sisulu Primary School.

Vehicle owners charged between R20 and R30 per person, depending on the distance, while wheelbarro­w and trolley pushers charged between R10 and R15 per load.

Honest Ndebele, who owns a wheelbarro­w, grabbed the opportunit­y after receiving his food.

“Yesterday, after receiving my food, I noticed that people were struggling to carry their food and I then started charging them.

“Many have now joined us. We are pushing their loads to taxis as they are not allowed near the school.

“This is a good opportunit­y to make something during this period. Our challenge is the people who don’t want to pay us after boarding a taxi,” said Ndebele.

Kabelo Motloung said he and his friends were taking a walk when they saw people waiting outside the school.

“I asked them if they needed someone to push their food and they agreed. We quickly ran home and returned pushing our wheelbarro­ws and trolleys. We have been working since this morning and so far have made some money.

“I would rather push a wheelbarro­w the whole day than rob people. This is an honest way of making money legit,” he added. Pule Netshilaph­ala said he was waiting for someone who was queuing for food when he was approached by people asking for a lift.

“I asked others who were already transporti­ng people how much they were charging and they told me that we must charge people the same amount.

“I have taken about five loads. I think by the end of the day, I would have taken more loads,” added Netshilaph­ala.

Thabo Sikhosana said he had transporte­d two loads with his private vehicle.

“I am helping people who are desperate for transport. People here need transport and I am not going to miss this opportunit­y to make cash to feed my family. I would rather be here than to sit at home without money,” Sikhosana added.

– News24 Wire

I am not going to miss this opportunit­y

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