Over 1 000 spaza shops, supermarkets, warehouses shut down – Ramaphosa

Ramaphosa

Cape Town – President Cyril Ramaphosa says over 1,000 spaza shops, supermarkets, and warehouses have been closed following nationwide inspections aimed at curbing foodborne illnesses.

Speaking to the National Council of Provinces on Thursday, Ramaphosa revealed that nearly 200,000 spaza shops have been inspected in the past two weeks, with large quantities of goods confiscated and fines issued for by-law violations.

“Since we announced a range of measures two weeks ago, multi-disciplinary teams have been conducting inspections of spaza shops across the country.

“Nearly 200 000 spaza shops have been visited. More than 1 000 spaza shops, supermarkets and warehouses have been closed down. Large quantities of goods have been confiscated and numerous fines have been issued for violations of by-laws,” he said.

Ramaphosa emphasised the essential role of spaza shops in local economies but acknowledged the risks they pose, particularly after a series of foodborne illness outbreaks claimed over 22 lives, including children.

These illnesses have been linked to food contamination and the unlawful sale of hazardous pesticides.

To prevent future outbreaks, Ramaphosa has mandated the immediate closure of implicated shops, stricter regulations, and the registration of all food-handling facilities with municipalities within 21 days.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of food sold to vulnerable communities.

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