Free State Department of Health Spokesperson Mondli Mvambi
By Thabo Mosia
The Free State Department of Health Spokesperson Mondli Mvambi has confirmed that all children admitted to hospitals across the province due to suspected food poisoning last week have been discharged as of Monday, 11 November 2024. This update brings relief to the affected families and communities who were deeply concerned following a series of food-related health incidents that impacted multiple schools.
Surge of Food Poisoning Cases Across Schools in the Free State
In a span of just a few days, several schools in the Free State province reported cases of suspected food poisoning among their learners. The incidents, which began on 6 November 2024, saw children from various primary schools experience symptoms such as stomach cramps, rashes, and vomiting after reportedly consuming snacks purchased from vendors near their schools. Health facilities across the province were put on high alert to handle the influx of patients.
• Daluvuyo Primary School, Welkom: A total of 45 learners were treated for symptoms of food poisoning and subsequently discharged. However, a 10-year-old boy remained under observation at Bongani Regional Hospital due to other health issues that were exacerbated by the incident. He has since shown signs of recovery.
• Ihobe Primary School, Bloemfontein: Forty-seven learners were admitted to Pelonomi Tertiary Hospital. Two of these children, a 10-year-old girl and an 11-year-old boy, were kept for further observation and treatment, while the rest were discharged.
• Toka Primary School, Bloemfontein: A single learner, a 10-year-old girl, was treated for food poisoning symptoms and discharged on the same day.
• Mooifontein School, Zastron: Fifteen learners were treated at Embekweni District Hospital, with one 16-year-old girl remaining under observation due to more severe symptoms.
Additionally, on 8 November, health services responded to two separate incidents in Virginia and Ventersburg, where 13 learners at Rearabetswe Clinic and six learners at Mamahabane Clinic showed symptoms of food poisoning.
Provincial Government’s Response and Public Caution
The Free State Provincial Government has expressed concern over the widespread nature of these incidents. Authorities suspect that the cases may reflect a coordinated effort, as several schools in different districts reported similar symptoms following the consumption of snacks bought from street vendors. The Department of Health has issued a public warning, urging residents to be cautious about where they buy their food and to avoid consuming expired or potentially unsafe items. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious food items to law enforcement agencies to prevent future incidents.
In light of these events, the Free State Department of Education has joined Gauteng province in suspending the sale of food and snacks inside and near school premises. This measure is intended to give officials time to conduct thorough investigations and enforce health and safety compliance within school environments.
Impact on Education and Vendor Regulations
The incidents have spurred the Free State Department of Education into action. Education MEC Dr Mantlhake Julia Maboya addressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “The incidents have raised significant concern, with learners from multiple schools across the Lejweleputswa, Motheo, Thabo Mofutsanyana, and Xhariep districts requiring medical attention after consuming items purchased from local vendors.”
In response, the Department of Education is implementing new safety measures. School-owned tuck shops and vendors that are under the strict supervision of school governing bodies are exempt from the temporary suspension. However, all vendors are expected to comply with stringent safety protocols. Maboya emphasized that police and the Department of Health will be closely monitoring food vendors to ensure full compliance.
The Department has also mandated that all school principals compile lists of authorized vendors operating on or near school premises. These lists are to be submitted to environmental health inspectors for thorough evaluation and regular inspections. Furthermore, the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) officials will work alongside the Department to uphold high food safety standards across all schools in the Free State.
National Measures and a Standard Draft By-Law for Township Economies
In response to the recent food poisoning cases, Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, introduced a Standard Draft By-Law for Township Economies. This new legislation, aligned with the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act of 2000, aims to create a safer and more supportive environment for small businesses, particularly in economically vulnerable areas.
According to Minister Hlabisa, the by-law represents a commitment to transforming townships into “vibrant economic hubs” that provide sustainable opportunities for residents while prioritizing public health. The legislation includes the following key provisions:
• Enhanced Business Freedom: Licensed vendors can now operate within designated zones, ensuring fair opportunities for all, especially South African citizens.
• Designated Business Zones: Municipalities are empowered to establish specific zones for retail, industrial, and mixed-use businesses, fostering organized and safe business environments.
• Simplified Permitting and Registration: The new by-law introduces a streamlined system, providing vendors with easier access to application processes and assistance from municipal officials.
• Safety and Compliance Standards: Regular inspections and public awareness campaigns will be conducted to ensure all township businesses adhere to high health and safety standards.
Minister Hlabisa stated, “Through inclusive and supportive governance, we aim to lay a foundation for sustainable economic activity in historically underserved areas, empowering individuals to participate meaningfully in the economy.”
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Address on Food Safety Concerns
In a recent Presidential Imbizo held in Umgababa, KwaZulu-Natal, President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the issue of food safety following the tragic deaths of several children in recent weeks. Speaking on behalf of the government, he assured the public that this issue is being handled at the highest levels, with a coordinated response involving multiple departments.
President Ramaphosa urged parents to ensure their children consume food only from reputable sources. “We have in the last few weeks lost a number of school children due to chemicals found in snacks they bought from spaza shops. This is a tragedy, and we are doing everything we can to prevent further loss of life.”
The President further mentioned that arrests have been made in connection with the illegal storage of hazardous chemicals on premises that sell food items. Additionally, new regulations governing the licensing of spaza shops are being enforced to prevent unsafe products from reaching children.
Gauteng’s Response to Similar Incidents
In Gauteng, where similar food poisoning incidents were reported, Premier Panyaza Lesufi announced the provincial government’s decision to ban an agricultural pesticide linked to some of the recent deaths. Lesufi highlighted the importance of enforcing stricter food safety regulations to protect children.
“We have to protect our communities and ensure unsafe products do not reach our children. Through collective efforts across government and communities, we aim to create safer, regulated environments for all township residents,” Lesufi said.
The Gauteng government has also implemented a draft gazette standardizing by-laws for businesses, which provides clear guidelines on business registration and conduct. The Department of Health is set to introduce a new system for recording incidents in schools and medical facilities, allowing for more efficient tracking and intervention.
Multi-Departmental Collaboration for Safer School Environments
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) is working in tandem with the Department of Health to create a safer environment for learners. New safety guidelines are being drafted to reduce exposure risks to dangerous chemicals often found in informal market food products. The DBE’s National School Nutrition Programme is also conducting regular inspections to ensure that food provided within schools is safe and nutritious.
These coordinated measures reflect the government’s commitment to safeguarding South African communities, especially young learners who are vulnerable to foodborne illnesses. President Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of a multi-level approach to strengthen regulations and protect communities.
“Our focus is on strengthening regulations, providing clear guidelines, and working together across all government levels to protect our communities,” he stated.
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