Investigate Foreign owned spaza shops – Department Told

The Portfolio Committee on Economic Development, Environment, Tourism, Agriculture, and Rural Development is reaching out to the North West communities to maintain composure in the face of recent concerns regarding alleged child fatalities due to the consumption of potentially hazardous food or grocery items purchased from foreign owned spaza shops.

The Committee under the leadership of Bitsa Lenkopane has become aware of increasing public alarm following reports of suspected food poisoning incidents in the province. In response, the Committee is encouraging communities to remain vigilant while also appealing to the Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation, and Tourism, along with other pertinent stakeholders, to conduct a thorough investigation into these troubling allegations.

Lenkopane emphasized the importance of this investigation, stating, “We are calling on the Department to carry out inspections and provide the Portfolio Committees with a comprehensive report. This report should identify trader categories and the consumable products they supply, particularly those affecting school learners. It should also highlight whether the traders are licensed, compliant with business regulations, and their status under the Immigration Act 13 of 2002 with regard to foreign-owned businesses.”

The Chair of the Portfolio Committee has been inundated with inquiries from concerned members of the community. Fear has permeated the North West due to media reports suggesting that children may have fallen victim to poisonous food items purchased from local spaza shops.

While no formal or authenticated information and evidence have been received, the Portfolio Committee recognizes the mounting concern among parents and community members seeking reassurance and protection from any potential threat posed by traders selling products allegedly containing deadly toxins.

“The department is urged to collaborate with municipalities and activate activists through the district development model to create awareness. It is vital that communities understand that the state is responsible for overseeing such businesses,” said Hon. Lenkopane.

The Portfolio Committee further calls upon the department to maintain regular communication with communities through various platforms to ensure accountability and responsibility for all businesses operating within the province. Such initiatives aim to alleviate unnecessary panic and establish a sense of confidence within the affected communities.

The Portfolio Committee anticipates receiving a comprehensive report from the department within seven days. This report will be instrumental in assessing the measures taken and systems in place, including the communication of a database of all businesses, whether regulated or not.

Lastly, the Portfolio Committee appeals to communities to refrain from causing undue unrest and instead report incidents while providing supporting evidence to the nearest police services. Accurate information should also be conveyed to government officials involved in addressing the situation, facilitating a coordinated response to address the concerns and safeguard the well-being of the community.