By Thabo Mosia
Johannesburg — The African National Congress (ANC) has extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of schoolchildren who tragically lost their lives due to food poisoning from contaminated food purchased from spaza shops and street vendors. Addressing the media on Thursday, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula expressed deep sadness over the incidents and underscored the urgent need for regulatory improvements to prevent further tragedies. The deaths have spurred national concern over the health, safety, and hygiene standards in community food outlets, with the ANC pledging to pursue stricter regulations to ensure public safety.
The Tragic Events and Their Impact on Communities
The recent deaths of schoolchildren have sent shockwaves across the nation, raising serious questions about food safety in South Africa’s underserved communities. Preliminary reports indicate that the children consumed contaminated food bought from local spaza shops and street vendors. These tragic incidents highlight the vulnerability of communities, particularly children, to foodborne illnesses stemming from inadequate health and hygiene practices.
The ANC’s statement reflected a broader concern about the state of informal food outlets that play a vital role in local economies. For years, spaza shops have provided affordable goods, job opportunities, and accessible services in areas where formal retail options are limited. However, the absence of consistent regulation and inspection has led to increasing cases of foodborne illnesses, especially among children, who are particularly susceptible to contaminated food.
ANC’s Commitment to Improved Food Safety Standards
Recognising the importance of addressing these challenges, Mbalula announced that the ANC, alongside the ANC Women’s League (ANCWL) and various community partners, will engage with stakeholders to implement health and safety protocols for spaza shops and informal vendors. These measures will be aimed at preventing future tragedies and ensuring that food sold within communities meets acceptable safety standards.
“The ANC is committed to ensuring that no family endures the pain of losing a child due to unsafe food practices. Our children’s health and safety are paramount, and we must act swiftly to introduce the necessary regulatory framework,” said Mbalula. He emphasised the need for localised by-laws tailored to the unique structure of informal businesses, which would address both the safety of consumers and the sustainability of small businesses.
Collaborative Efforts for Regulatory Improvement
In a bid to prevent similar incidents, the ANC is working closely with multiple government bodies, including the National Consumer Commission, the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Agriculture, and the Department of Health’s Environmental Directorate. These efforts are being coordinated by the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), which is conducting investigations into the cause of the recent food contamination cases.
The ANC has committed to monitoring these investigations closely, with the aim of implementing comprehensive measures based on the findings. The collective response seeks to establish and enforce rigorous health standards across communities, while also raising awareness among consumers, vendors, and local businesses about the importance of safe food practices.
Community Vigilance and Public Awareness
In addition to regulatory measures, the ANC is calling on communities to remain vigilant regarding food safety. Mbalula encouraged parents, teachers, and community members to be cautious about the sources of food provided to children, particularly around schools. He advised consumers to ensure that food from spaza shops and street vendors meets basic hygiene standards and urged vendors to prioritise food safety in their operations.
“While we work towards better regulations, it is crucial for communities to be part of the solution by being vigilant and ensuring that food practices are safe,” Mbalula stated. He also highlighted the need for educational campaigns to inform both vendors and the public about safe food handling and the potential health risks associated with improper practices.
ANC’s Stance on Electoral Reform and Democratic Principles
On the political front, Mbalula took the opportunity to address the ANC’s position on electoral reform. He confirmed that the ANC has recently submitted its initial input to the Electoral Systems Panel, the body tasked with exploring potential changes to South Africa’s electoral system for future National and Provincial Elections. According to Mbalula, the submission reflects the ANC’s commitment to the principles of the Freedom Charter, which emphasises democratic governance and inclusivity.
The ANC advocates for the continuation of the Proportional Representation (PR) electoral system, which has fostered an inclusive government and provided fair representation for various social groups. “Our PR system has enabled all South Africans, regardless of background, to have their voices represented in Parliament. This system reflects our nation’s democratic spirit and commitment to diversity,” Mbalula explained.
While the ANC remains open to discussing reform options, Mbalula reaffirmed the party’s dedication to maintaining a system that upholds accountability, transparency, and representation.
ANC’s People-Centred “Walking with the People’s Walk”
The ANC also announced plans for the “Walking with the People’s Walk,” scheduled for Friday, 8 November, in Tshwane. This initiative is designed to unite and mobilise citizens around a people-centred agenda, promoting policies that prioritise service delivery, economic transformation, and tangible benefits for communities. Thousands of South Africans are expected to participate, showing their support for the ANC’s commitment to listening to and acting on the concerns of the people.
“The People’s Walk is more than just a march; it’s a testament to our commitment to the communities we serve,” Mbalula said. He added that the ANC’s legitimacy is grounded in public trust, and initiatives like this walk help reinforce that bond by directly engaging with citizens.
Responding to Criticism from the SACP
In light of recent public statements by the South African Communist Party (SACP), which has criticised ANC leadership, Mbalula addressed the importance of unity within the Tripartite Alliance. He acknowledged the concerns raised by the SACP but urged that any differences be resolved internally, with respect for the longstanding alliance.
Mbalula highlighted the ANC-SACP alliance’s role in achieving the National Democratic Revolution (NDR) and building a democratic, non-racial, and non-sexist South Africa. He called for a return to the example set by past leaders, such as Chris Hani, who promoted unity and compromise. The ANC plans to meet with SACP leadership to clarify their stance and reinforce a commitment to shared goals.
ANC Rebukes Helen Zille’s Claims
Mbalula also addressed statements made by Helen Zille of the Democratic Alliance (DA), who has recently alleged that the ANC plays a central role in shaping South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU). The ANC categorically rejected Zille’s claims, labelling them as baseless and misleading attempts to distort historical facts and undermine the ANC’s leadership.
“Zille’s accusations are nothing more than a blatant attempt to gain political relevance by attacking the ANC,” Mbalula asserted. He noted that the ANC has a strong history of initiating public-private partnerships, contrary to Zille’s claims, and remains committed to advancing South Africa’s democratic and economic development independently.
The ANC condemned Zille’s divisive rhetoric, which it views as an attempt to exploit identity politics. Mbalula reaffirmed the ANC’s dedication to creating an inclusive South Africa that prioritises equality and genuine unity, rejecting any attempts by external figures to undermine its leadership.
ANC’s Continued Dedication to the National Democratic Revolution
In closing, Mbalula reiterated the ANC’s commitment to the National Democratic Revolution, which seeks to address South Africa’s socio-economic challenges and ensure a prosperous future for all citizens. The ANC’s plans include rolling out the National Health Insurance (NHI), strengthening educational frameworks through the BELA Act, and attracting investment to drive economic growth.
He emphasised that the ANC’s agenda remains focused on improving the lives of ordinary South Africans, undeterred by divisive tactics or criticisms from political opponents. “Our responsibility to the people of South Africa will always guide our actions, and we will not be swayed by rhetoric designed to derail our mission,” Mbalula concluded.
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