By Noko Mashilo
In the wake of recent tragedies involving foodborne illnesses linked to contaminated goods, South Africa’s spaza shop owners find themselves in the spotlight. These small, informal retail outlets that mostly operating in townships and rural areas, are vital to local economies, offering accessible and affordable goods to underserved communities.
However, the reported outbreaks of food poisoning have placed these shop owners at the heart of a sensitive and complex debate. While many express concern over food safety and their responsibility to the communities they serve, they also highlight significant challenges. These include limited access to proper storage facilities, minimal regulatory oversight, and the pressures of operating within an informal economy.
Their feedback reveals a nuanced understanding of the situation, acknowledging the gravity of the incidents while calling for systemic solutions to address food safety issues across the sector. This week, Vutivi News engaged with spaza shop owners to better understand how they were navigating the intersection of community trust, public health, and the realities of informal trade.
Perspectives from Spaza Shop Owners
Henry Nkuna, a shop owner from Phola Park in Thokoza, has been in the business for seven years. He expressed frustration and skepticism over the feasibility of meeting new compliance demands. “Foreigners are the troublemakers here; they caused this situation. If the president says we must comply in 21 days, that’s impossible. We know how our system works,” said Nkuna, who admitted that he did not know where to register and what documents were needed to comply.
For Ramush Husain, who has run his shop for nine years, the allegations surrounding food poisoning feel politically motivated. “I cannot kill because I need business. Those who created these incidents should stop blaming ‘makula’, that’s the word they like to use,” said Husain, who is originally from Ethiopia.
Another Ethiopian shop owner, Thomas Wolde, shared his struggle with the bureaucratic process of renewing permits. “I will fix my permit, but the requirements are overwhelming. Who will protect my shop if I stop sleeping there? I do it for my business and my safety,” said Wolde, who operates in Ekurhuleni.
Meanwhile, compliant shop owner Tsefapo Ahmed pointed out ongoing safety issues in his neighbourhood. “In my area, the community and SAPS conduct inspections every Friday. Last week, they caught three individuals putting white tablets in crisps. Still, 21 days is too short notice to meet these requirements,” said Ahmed.
Government’s Stance
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for all spaza shops and food-handling facilities to register with their municipalities by 15, 2024. He emphasised that shops failing to meet health standards and regulatory requirements within 21 days would face closure. As spaza shop owners grapple with these changes, their voices underscore the need for a balanced approach that prioritises public health while addressing the operational realities of informal commerce.
