Gauteng Government Enforces Strict Compliance Measures Amid Food Safety Concerns
Finance and Economic Development Gauteng MEC, Lebogang Maile, has issued a stern warning to South Africans who help register spaza shops for undocumented foreigners. Speaking during a media briefing in Bramley, Johannesburg, Maile emphasized that violators would face the full extent of the law.
This announcement comes in the wake of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s directive mandating the registration of all spaza shops and food-handling stores within 21 days. The move is a response to a surge in foodborne illnesses, which have tragically claimed the lives of more than ten children in recent months.
Key Issues Highlighted by Maile
Illegality of Registering on Behalf of Undocumented Foreigners
Maile revealed that inspections had uncovered South African citizens registering spaza shops for undocumented foreign nationals. He explained that this practice poses challenges for law enforcement and local authorities:
“The Immigration Act speaks to this as well. This flagrant disregard for the law makes it difficult for municipalities to compile valid data on enterprises in townships and hinders monitoring compliance.”
The MEC warned locals of the risks, including legal accountability for negligence in cases of food-related illnesses or accidents linked to these businesses.
Spaza Shops: A Public Health Crisis
The province has faced alarming cases of contaminated food being sold at spaza shops. These incidents have led to multiple hospitalizations, predominantly affecting children.
Maile called for stricter inspections, with municipalities deploying building inspectors, environmental health officers, and fire inspectors to ensure compliance with safety and zoning regulations.
Streamlined Registration Process
To prevent bottlenecks, the Gauteng provincial government has simplified the spaza shop registration process. Business owners, whether local or foreign, must provide:
- A valid South African ID or foreign business visa.
- Proof of residence.
- Zoning certificates and municipal comments.
- Business registration with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC).
- A certificate of acceptability for food handling.
Foreign nationals are required to furnish valid documentation from the Department of Home Affairs, including business visas or work permits, to operate legally in South Africa.
Impact on Employment Practices
In addition to meeting registration standards, spaza shop owners must comply with South African labor laws. Foreign nationals employing workers in their shops are mandated to hire individuals with valid work permits, such as the general work visa.
“This visa ensures employment only when it has been proven that South African citizens with the necessary skills are unavailable,” Maile stated.
Looking Ahead
Maile’s firm stance reflects the Gauteng government’s commitment to safeguarding communities from potential health crises while addressing issues of lawlessness and economic regulation. Residents and business owners are urged to comply with the 21-day registration deadline to avoid legal consequences and ensure their enterprises contribute positively to local economies.
Also read: How to Register Your Spaza Shop: Step-by-Step Guide
