City of Tshwane Launches Online Registration Portal
By Mpho Moloi
As the registration deadline for spaza shop owners approaches, the City of Tshwane has introduced an online portal to streamline the process for entrepreneurs. The initiative aligns with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s directive that all spaza shops and food-handling businesses register with their respective municipalities to ensure compliance with trading, health, and safety by-laws.
The online registration page, available at tinyurl.com/tshwanespaza, provides a convenient option for business owners to register without disrupting their operations.
Registration Requirements and Process
According to Tshwane’s MMC for Economic Development and Spatial Development, Sarah Mabotsa, the online system was designed to ensure business continuity for spaza shop owners. “The online registration process means that business owners’ operations do not need to be interrupted,” Mabotsa said.
Key Details for Registration:
• Who Needs to Register: All spaza shop owners and food vendors operating within the City of Tshwane.
• Registration Period: 15 November to 13 December 2024.
• Registration Platforms:
• Online: tinyurl.com/tshwanespaza or City of Tshwane Open Data Platform
• In-person: Assistance available at designated Tshwane municipal offices.
Required Documentation:
1. Personal and Business Information:
• Contact details.
• Identity document (for South Africans) or valid passport/refugee/asylum documentation (for foreign nationals).
• Proof of business address.
• Business type or nature of the shop.
2. Additional Documents Encouraged for Submission:
• Registration with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC).
• Proof of ownership or lease agreement for the premises.
• Zoning certificate if required.
• Tax clearance certificate from SARS.
• Bank confirmation letter for the business account.
• Menu copy (for restaurants).
Verification Process:
Approval of applications will be subject to verification of the applicant’s legal status by the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring compliance with South African regulations.
The Government’s Rationale for Registration
President Ramaphosa issued the directive for mandatory spaza shop registration following a series of foodborne illness outbreaks that led to the tragic deaths of several schoolchildren. The government aims to address issues of public health and consumer safety, particularly in informal food markets.
“The President gave directives to all spaza shops and food-handling businesses to be registered within 21 days,” Mabotsa explained. “This is part of a broader government intervention to protect consumers and ensure compliance with health and safety standards.”
The initiative also seeks to remove hazardous pesticides and other harmful substances from circulation, thereby safeguarding vulnerable groups, especially children.
Citywide Outreach Programme
The City of Tshwane has embarked on a registration outreach programme to encourage compliance among spaza shop owners. Mabotsa appealed to entrepreneurs to utilise the online platform or visit municipal offices for assistance.
“The City of Tshwane embarked on this citywide spaza shop registration outreach programme to ensure spaza shops are registered and that they comply with trading, health, and safety by-laws,” Mabotsa said.
The City has also made efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of counterfeit and expired food products, which have been linked to recent foodborne illness outbreaks.
Regulation to Boost Local Entrepreneurship
The initiative also supports broader government goals to prioritise South African entrepreneurs in the ownership and operation of spaza shops. With over 400 spaza shops already closed in Gauteng since January 2024 for failing to meet safety regulations, the registration process is seen as a critical step toward formalising the sector.
Mabotsa stated, “Spaza shops, small businesses, and all related enterprises must be preserved for South Africans. This process ensures that these businesses operate within the legal framework, promoting both safety and economic growth.”
Support for Business Owners
To ensure that business owners are adequately supported, the City of Tshwane has designated municipal offices to provide in-person assistance for those unable to access the online platform. Officials are also conducting educational campaigns to help entrepreneurs understand the importance of compliance.
Municipal representatives are working to ensure the registration process is simple and accessible, even for those with limited resources or technical knowledge.
Public Call to Action
The City of Tshwane encourages residents to report the sale of counterfeit or expired food products to municipal authorities. These proactive measures aim to enhance public safety while holding non-compliant businesses accountable.
“We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any violations to help create safer trading environments,” Mabotsa said.
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