Gauteng Government Cracks Down On Non-Compliant Spaza Shops In Soweto

Gauteng MEC for Finance and Economic Development Lebogang Maile on Tuesday said that the government will continue taking action against spaza shops and food-handling facilities that do not comply with regulations.

The MEC on Monday carried out inspections in Soweto as part of a compliance blitz targeting spaza shops and other food establishments.

This initiative follows a directive from President Cyril Ramaphosa last month, requiring all spaza shops and food-handling facilities to register with their local municipalities. The directive was issued after a rise in foodborne illness cases across the country.

"Government is going to clamp down very hard. We are going to put more pressure [on shop owners] and we are going to put more resources," Maile said, SA News reported. "What I can tell you with certainty is that we are taking this process seriously."

He added, "That's why we deliberately and consciously decided that we are going for the big guys now and not just the small shops. Government is putting resources to the police, we have inspectors that were here."

During an inspection of a national supermarket chain, the MEC revealed that rat droppings were found, raising serious concerns about food safety. Food inspectors issued warnings, removed unsafe food items and noted that some products were unlabeled or non-compliant with regulations.

The MEC emphasized the importance of holding larger supermarkets accountable for maintaining hygiene and safety standards, noting that previous efforts had focused more on spaza shops. He stressed that all food establishments must ensure hygienic conditions to protect public health.

Maile said that while the government is working to eliminate expired goods and improve food handling practices, business owners also have a responsibility to follow the law and ensure compliance.

He criticized business owners who prioritize profits over the safety and well-being of customers, calling it selfish and irresponsible. During inspections of spaza shops, some issues were found that did not warrant closures but highlighted areas needing improvement.

Shop owners agreed to address these concerns, and inspectors will conduct follow-ups. Maile emphasized that shops found unfit to operate will be shut down to ensure public safety.