In response to a surge in deadly food-borne illnesses, President Cyril Ramaphosa has mandated that all spaza shops and food-handling facilities reregister their businesses within 21 days to ensure compliance with health standards. Shops that fail to meet the requirements within the deadline face closure.
While aimed at safeguarding public health, the directive has sparked anxiety among spaza shop operators, particularly those in informal settlements. Many operators say they face barriers to meeting the stringent requirements, such as obtaining zoning certificates, proof of property ownership, or permits to use residential yards for business purposes.
Tamirat Gemede, an Ethiopian shop owner, expressed concern about the impact of the deadline on his livelihood. “The 21-day deadline is not enough; the processes for approvals take months,” Gemede said. “If this shop closes, my brother, our employees, and I will lose our income, and the community will have to spend extra money on transport for basic necessities. We need more time.”
In response, the City of Ekurhuleni has pledged compliance with the president’s directive and is working on policies to streamline the registration process. The city manager announced plans to present a new strategy to council, focusing on business registration, licensing, and safe food-handling practices.
“The city is open to assisting everyone, regardless of origin, provided they meet the set requirements,” the city manager stated, emphasizing their commitment to supporting local businesses while ensuring public safety.
The directive has highlighted the challenges faced by informal traders, who play a vital role in serving communities but often operate without formal documentation. As the deadline looms, shop owners are appealing to the government for extended timelines and tailored solutions to balance health regulations with economic realities.
Observers see this policy as a pivotal test of the government’s ability to enforce public health measures without undermining vulnerable small businesses. The outcome of the reregistration drive will likely shape future regulations for informal traders across the country.