South Africa is implementing urgent measures after a wave of food poisoning incidents claimed the lives of 22 children, with President Cyril Ramaphosa ordering the immediate removal of hazardous pesticides from streets and shops.
In a televised address to the nation, Ramaphosa disclosed that 890 cases of food-borne illnesses have been reported across the country since September, sparking widespread concern. He linked the illnesses to contaminated food commonly purchased from informal vendors and spaza shops, small township stores that play a critical role in local economies but often lack stringent regulation.
One of the most devastating incidents occurred in Naledi, a township in Soweto near Johannesburg, where six children, the youngest just six years old, tragically died last month after consuming snacks bought from spaza shops. Subsequent investigations revealed the presence of Terbufos, a highly toxic pesticide authorized for agricultural use but informally sold in townships as a household pest control solution.
Ramaphosa emphasized the dangers of Terbufos misuse, noting that inspections in Naledi uncovered traces of the chemical in three spaza shops out of 84 examined. Inspectors also found food items stored alongside pesticides and cleaning agents, further endangering public health.
As part of his response, Ramaphosa ordered the immediate closure of all shops implicated in the children’s deaths. Additionally, he mandated that all food-handling businesses register with municipal authorities within 21 days and comply with health standards. Non-compliance will result in their closure.
The president’s intervention comes amid growing pressure to address food safety concerns in the informal sector, where regulatory oversight remains limited despite its significant role in providing affordable goods to low-income communities.
