The spaza shop and food handling establishment sector has seen another significant development, with government extending the business registration deadline to 28 February 2025. This extension follows the initial deadline set by President Cyril Ramaphosa of 21 days, which ended last Tuesday.
This announcement was made at a press conference by Minister of Government Cooperation and Traditional Affairs Velenkosi Hlabisa, who stressed the need for government to strengthen regulation of the sector and ensure that businesses adhere to existing health standards. According to him, more work needs to be done to ensure that the sector is properly regulated and complies with health regulations.
The registration issue is aimed at ensuring that all spaza shops adhere to minimum standards of operation, regardless of their past history. The minister warned that any establishment that did not meet the health standards or was run by foreigners who were illegally in the country would be closed down, even if registered.
Statistics show that a total of 42,915 applications have been filed since November 15 to operate spaza shops and food outlets. Of these, 19,386 were approved while 1,041 businesses were ordered to close down.
The relevant authorities have stressed that compliance with health regulations is a top priority, regardless of registration or not. Any non-compliance would result in the immediate closure of the establishment. Concerns over foodborne illnesses and deaths, especially among children, have prompted authorities to step up checks and compliance measures.
Meanwhile, investigations are underway into the origin of the organophosphate Terbufos, which is suspected to be the cause of several child deaths in Soweto. Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi said investigations are being conducted to determine whether the substance is sourced from abroad, as it is different from the locally manufactured ones.
Multidisciplinary enforcement teams are conducting compliance checks, targeted operations at warehouses, supermarkets and food outlets, as well as closures of non-compliant establishments. Increased surveillance of imported food products, medicines and pesticides at the country’s entry points has also been stepped up..
In conclusion, this extension of the registration deadline for companies operating in the spaza shops and food handling establishments sector aims to guarantee the safety, health and well-being of consumers, while ensuring strict compliance with current health standards.