Lerato Mailoane
In response to a concerning surge in food poisoning cases associated with spaza shops, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has urgently introduced new by-laws to regulate their operations.
On Sunday, Lesufi, members of the Executive Council, and Mayors met to address foodborne diseases, outlining stringent regulations aimed at safeguarding public health and preventing further tragedies.
“We all agreed that addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach involving stricter regulations, better enforcement of existing laws, and increased public awareness about the potential dangers associated with purchasing from unregulated spaza shops and informal traders.”
Lesufi emphasised that the province’s strategy is a collective effort, with introducing new by-laws on business registration and operations a key part of this inclusive approach.
“We are going to start weekly stakeholder engagement and consultations. We are further starting the process of re-registration of spaza shops.”
MEC for Economic Development, Lebogang Maile and all Members of the Mayoral Committee (MMCs), who are responsible for various portfolios in the municipality, will develop a template for the re-registration of businesses, especially those that were involved in the illness and deaths of our children.
The premier said implementing enforcement and compliance within the immediate interventions will ensure adherence to relevant regulations and standards. Food safety educational and awareness programmes will also be instituted.
The meeting further recommended that municipalities implement a comprehensive strategy that includes enforcing by-laws and educating and training spaza shop owners and staff on food safety practices.
This will include proper food handling, storage, and cooking techniques. Municipalities are expected to establish a system for regular health inspections by local health authorities to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
Furthermore, municipalities are tasked with launching community awareness campaigns to empower customers with knowledge about food safety, signs of spoilage, and the process of reporting unsafe practices.
Law enforcement will also close shops that do not comply and operate without proper licensing/certificates of acceptability and other regulations. Non-compliance could result in fines, closure of the business, or even legal action.
SOURCED FROM THE GPG WEBSITE.
