In light of recent concerns over food safety in spaza shops, Gauteng’s government, led by MEC for Economic Development Lebogang Maile, has set forth new registration requirements for all spaza shops in the province. This move follows an unfortunate incident involving contaminated food that led to the death of 23 children. In response, authorities aim to ensure that shops comply with safety and legal standards. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the new requirements:
1. Re-Registration Timeline
- All spaza shops in Gauteng are required to re-register within 21 days, starting from November 18, 2024. This 21-day window excludes weekends and is part of a rapid response to improve the safety and oversight of businesses.
2. Requirements for Foreign Shop Owners
- Foreign nationals who operate spaza shops must provide valid documentation from the Department of Home Affairs. This includes:
- A business visa or work permit for shop owners.
- For a business visa, a foreign national must either invest R5 million in an existing business or provide a business plan with evidence of a R5 million capital investment.
- Employees working in the shops must hold a valid work permit.
These strict measures are aimed at ensuring only documented and legally compliant foreign nationals run businesses in Gauteng.
3. Legal Compliance and Health Standards
- Shops must adhere to zoning and health standards, with municipalities deploying inspectors to ensure compliance. This includes:
- Building inspectors, fire inspectors, health officers, and town planners will conduct safety checks.
- Specific requirements include having essential safety equipment like fire extinguishers, which is necessary to meet health standards.
4. Risks of Non-Compliance
- Failure to comply with registration requirements may result in the closure of businesses. Additionally:
- South Africans who register businesses on behalf of foreign nationals not meeting the legal standards may face legal consequences, particularly if incidents result in hospitalization or death.
- This re-registration effort aims to collect accurate data on enterprises and ensure fair business practices.
5. Government Support and Capacity Issues
- Maile acknowledged concerns about the government’s capacity to handle the re-registration process but assured that efforts are underway to support municipalities. Despite the challenges, he affirmed that Gauteng is committed to executing the President’s directives on improving business oversight.
6. Community Reactions
- The new regulations have sparked mixed reactions within communities:
- Some, like local business owners, have voiced frustrations over increased bureaucracy and costs, such as the expense of fire safety equipment.
- Groups like Operation Dudula have expressed opposition to foreign nationals operating spaza shops, advocating for shops to remain under South African ownership.
- The government, however, is firm in its stance to maintain fair and transparent processes for all businesses, regardless of the nationality of the owners.
7. Operation Dudula’s Involvement
- Anti-immigrant groups have staged protests, particularly in Soweto, attempting to prevent foreign nationals from registering their shops. The government has assured that law enforcement will maintain order during the registration period to ensure compliance with the new guidelines.
8. Impact on the Community
- These changes are driven by a commitment to enhance food safety and accountability. The tragic food poisoning incident has pushed the government to take a stronger stance on business oversight in the province, aiming to restore trust in the food items sold within local shops.
The new spaza shop registration requirements in Gauteng are part of a broader effort to protect consumers, enhance safety, and ensure compliance with South Africa’s laws. Business owners, both local and foreign, must prepare for these changes by ensuring they meet all legal and health standards. The 21-day registration window presents a challenge, but the government has pledged to support municipalities in processing registrations. Compliance will not only help in maintaining safety but also build a more trustworthy business environment in townships across Gauteng.
Key Takeaways for Business Owners:
- Ensure your documentation is in order before attempting to register.
- Invest in safety equipment like fire extinguishers.
- Understand the zoning and health standards applicable to your shop.
- Be aware of the legal consequences for non-compliance, especially if representing foreign-owned businesses.
Related article: President Cyril Ramaphosa Allocates R500 Million to Upgrade Spaza Shops and Provide Business Support
