Gauteng municipalities tighten regulations on spaza shops following deadly food poisoning cases

By Charles Molele

Gauteng premier Panyaza Lesufi has announced new by-laws to govern spaza shops as the province responds to a rise in deadly food poisoning cases.

The announcement follows a meeting on Sunday with provincial executive council members, municipal leaders and heads of department to coordinate a provincial response.

It also comes after the announcement by Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Velenkosini Hlabisa on 7 November 2024, when he introduced a new Standard Draft By-Law for Township Economies.
This by-law, issued in accordance with the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act of 2000, aims to create an enabling environment for small businesses in townships, supporting economic inclusion, job creation, and community empowerment.

After the meeting on Sunday with the provincial executive and municipal leaders, Lesufi said it was agreed that addressing the issue of deadly food poisoning at spaza shops required a comprehensive approach involving stricter regulations,