City of Cape Town
By Lerato Mpembe
In response to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s directive on 15 November 2024, the City of Cape Town has reported receiving more than 6,000 applications for Certificates of Acceptability (COAs) from spaza shop owners. This initiative aims to formalise the informal retail sector and enhance food safety standards nationwide.
Background: Food Safety Concerns Prompt Nationwide Registration
The President’s call for registration followed a series of tragic incidents where over 20 children succumbed to foodborne illnesses linked to snacks purchased from local spaza shops. These events have underscored the urgent need for stringent food safety measures within the informal retail sector. 
City’s Response: Application Process and Compliance Measures
The City of Cape Town has been proactive in facilitating the registration process. Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Patricia Van der Ross, stated that COAs are issued only after thorough evaluation. “COAs are only awarded on submission of all relevant documentation, and a physical inspection to ensure that the premises comply with legislative requirements,” she explained. Post-issuance, regular inspections are conducted to ensure ongoing compliance with health and safety standards.
Registration Deadline and Compliance Enforcement
Spaza shop owners have been given until 25 February 2025 to register their businesses. The city has emphasised that actions against food premises posing a threat to public health are ongoing, highlighting the importance of compliance to avoid potential closures or penalties.
National Perspective: Government’s Efforts to Regulate the Informal Retail Sector
Nationally, the government has been intensifying efforts to regulate the informal retail sector. In Gauteng, for instance, over 500 spaza shops have been closed due to non-compliance with health and safety regulations.  These measures are part of a broader strategy to prevent further foodborne illnesses and ensure the safety of consumers.
Challenges Faced by Spaza Shop Owners
While the registration process is crucial for public health, it presents challenges for spaza shop owners, particularly regarding the stringent requirements for compliance. Many operators, especially in smaller municipalities, may lack the resources or knowledge to meet these standards, necessitating support and guidance from local authorities. 
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