New Draft By-Law for Township Economies Has Been Introduced to Reduce Food Contamination Illnesses and Deaths

CoGTA’s Standard Draft By-Law Empowers Townships with Safer Business Environments and Improved Health Standards

Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, recently introduced a new Standard Draft By-Law aimed at empowering township businesses, in a move to support safe, sustainable business practices within our township economies. The by-law, which falls under the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act of 2000, establishes vital health and safety protocols for businesses to curb food contamination risks, promoting healthier communities and reducing preventable illnesses and deaths in township areas.

Empowering Township Economies with Health Standards

This Standard Draft By-Law is more than an economic enabler; it is a public health safeguard for businesses dealing with food and other perishable goods. By enforcing compliance with health and safety regulations, the by-law seeks to mitigate the risks of foodborne illnesses, which disproportionately affect townships due to limited access to clean water, proper sanitation, and regulated storage facilities. CoGTA describes this initiative as a necessary step to protect both consumers and business owners while supporting entrepreneurial growth.

Key Features: Health, Safety, and Compliance

The by-law introduces various mechanisms designed to ensure high standards in food handling and storage. Businesses are mandated to comply with health standards, undergo regular inspections, and participate in public awareness campaigns. CoGTA has emphasized that the by-law enforces stringent hygiene protocols across all business activities. This will not only reduce the spread of foodborne illnesses but also increase public trust in township businesses, making township markets safer and more attractive for consumers.

Designated Business Zones for Safe Trading

A notable aspect of the by-law is the creation of designated business zones within townships. These zones provide safer spaces for food vendors and other businesses to operate under controlled conditions, where health and safety protocols are more easily monitored. The zoning approach also aims to centralize food vendors and streamline inspections, thereby enhancing the ease of regulatory oversight and compliance.

Streamlined Permits and Support for Food Vendors

To further empower township businesses, the by-law provides an efficient permit and registration system, available both online and in-person. Municipal officials will assist vendors through the application process, ensuring timely approvals, compliance, and proper health training. By simplifying these steps, the government hopes to create a streamlined entry point for new and existing businesses, helping vendors operate safely without bureaucratic delays.

Commitment to Public Health and Economic Growth

“The new by-law reflects CoGTA’s commitment to reducing foodborne illnesses and fatalities by ensuring township businesses uphold stringent health standards,” said Hlabisa. He also noted that by enforcing public health protocols, townships could become vibrant hubs of safe, sustainable economic activity.

Community Engagement and Ongoing Support

CoGTA emphasized its dedication to ongoing community engagement and stakeholder involvement. The department plans to regularly liaise with township residents, business owners, and public health officials to assess the by-law’s impact, identify areas for improvement, and ensure widespread benefits.

With the introduction of this Standard Draft By-Law, South Africa’s township economies are poised to become safer, more regulated environments where businesses can thrive while ensuring public health. This initiative sets a precedent for responsible governance that aligns economic empowerment with health and safety, ultimately reducing food contamination and building a healthier, more resilient community.

Also read: Government Approves New Regulations for Spaza Shops Amid Food Safety Crisis, Says Ramaphosa