Tragic Incident Highlights Concerns Over Food Safety in Local Communities
A Grade 2 pupil from Thabisile Primary School in Diepkloof, Soweto, tragically passed away on Friday after falling ill from suspected food poisoning. The eight-year-old’s condition reportedly deteriorated after consuming biscuits purchased from a local spaza shop.
Details of the Incident
The pupil fell ill on Wednesday, November 20, after allegedly eating the biscuits. Her condition worsened over the following days, leading to her being admitted to Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital on Friday, where she was declared deceased.
The Gauteng Department of Education spokesperson, Steve Mabona, stated that the exact cause of death remains unclear, with investigations underway to determine the circumstances of this heartbreaking event.
Support for Affected Community
In response to the tragedy, the Gauteng Education Department dispatched its psychosocial support team to provide counseling to the grieving family, school staff, and pupils at Thabisile Primary School.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and school community during this difficult time. We remain committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all learners and will closely monitor developments,” said Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane.
Food Safety Concerns in Soweto
This incident is one of many recent cases raising alarm about food safety in local communities. Since September, at least 23 children have died due to food poisoning, with close to 900 reported cases of illness nationwide.
Just last week, another Soweto child—a Grade R pupil from Dumezweni Primary School—died after consuming suspected poisoned food, while three other children were hospitalized.
In response, President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered the immediate closure of spaza shops implicated in food-related deaths and illnesses. He mandated that all spaza shops and food-handling facilities register with their respective municipalities within 21 days to enhance food safety compliance.
Calls for Action
This tragedy underscores the urgent need for stricter food safety measures and monitoring of informal food vendors. It also highlights the critical importance of educating communities about food hygiene and ensuring that food sold in spaza shops meets regulatory standards.
