Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, announced that more than 200,000 spaza shops have been inspected since the government implemented measures to combat food-borne illnesses.
As a result, at least 1,000 shops have been shut down.
During a briefing on Thursday at Parliament, following Cabinet’s final meeting of the year, Ntshavheni emphasised that inspections were not limited to foreign-owned shops.
The crackdown follows President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement last month, prompted by a series of deaths, particularly among young children, who consumed contaminated snacks purchased from spaza shops.
Ntshavheni clarified that foreign nationals seeking to register spaza shops must provide proof of an investment exceeding R5 million, as stipulated by law.
“Cabinet reminds all spaza shops and food handling facilities that they are required to register with their municipality within 21 days from the 15th of November 2024, and to meet the required health standards,” she stated.
In addition, Cabinet approved financial support for compliant businesses.
“The Department of Small Business Development and Trade, Industry and Competition are finalising the setting up of an SMME fund to the value of half a billion rand to support South African-owned township and rural businesses as soon as they meet the compliance requirements.”
Facebook Comments