Cape Town – The ANC has called on the government to close all spaza shops in Gauteng after the deaths of 12 children from consuming toxic snacks bought at these shops.
ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula urged immediate action to shut down and re-register the shops, deport undocumented owners, and crack down on illegal immigrants.
At least 12 children have died, and several others have been hospitalized across various Gauteng townships, including Soweto, after consuming snacks purchased from local spaza shops.
“These tragedies underscore a growing concern over the health, safety and hygiene in shops and food outlets across our communities and highlight the urgent need for regulatory improvements.
(Courtesy of SABC News)
“To this extent, as the ANC we call on our government to lead the regulation of the spaza shop environment and ensure that all spaza shops close down and register afresh to ensure that we’ve got the right people serving our communities,” Mbalula said.
Mbalula stressed the need for improved regulation and highlighted the importance of safety and hygiene in community food outlets.
The call aims to address growing concerns over public health and safety.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
