GOOD statement by Bongani Sonqwenqwe ,
GOOD Overberg District Councillor
3 December 2024
As we navigate the ongoing concerns surrounding Spaza shops, Good in the Overberg District believe that the timeframe set by the President is unrealistic.
With next week marking the end of the 21-day deadline, it is clear the Overberg District municipalities are falling behind and will not succeed at full registration.
The safety and well-being of our community members, particularly our children, is of paramount importance. It is our collective responsibility as leaders to ensure that we provide a secure and healthy environment for them to thrive.
The registration process is a critical step in ensuring that Spaza shops operate within the bounds of the law and provide safe and healthy products to our communities. We are aware that some municipalities have already initiated this process and we commend them for their proactive approach.
However, we also recognise that this process may present challenges for some municipalities and spaza shop owners, particularly those who may not have the necessary resources or support.
As GOOD, we urge municipalities to provide the necessary assistance, including training and resources, to ensure spaza shop owners are able to comply with the relevant regulations.
In the meantime, the Good Councillors in the Overberg District will conduct regular shop inspections alongside law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance and safeguard our community members.
As GOOD, we will also engage with spaza shop owners, their employees and the broader community to raise awareness about the importance of food safety and the role that they play in ensuring the health and well-being of our communities.
We urge municipalities to follow due process in addressing this escalating issue of food poisoning among our children.
Media enquiries:media@forgood.org.za