By Karabo Marifi
The tragic deaths of six children in Naledi, Soweto, have been attributed to the ingestion of a highly toxic pesticide called Terbufos, an organophosphate commonly used in agriculture. Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi confirmed the findings during a media briefing on 28 October 2024. This revelation followed an extensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the children’s deaths, which occurred earlier this month after they reportedly consumed snacks from a local spaza shop.
Motsoaledi clarified that Terbufos, a lethal organophosphate, differs from carbamates, which were initially suspected. Carbamates are also hazardous but less potent than organophosphates, which can cause severe and often irreversible damage. The identification of Terbufos as the cause of death was confirmed through post-mortem toxicology tests conducted by the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), which analysed the samples from the deceased children.
In response to the findings, a team of 80 environmental health inspectors, in collaboration with the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD), inspected over 80 spaza shops in Soweto to search for evidence of harmful chemicals. Although a small quantity of the chemical Aldicarb, a dangerous carbamate pesticide, was confiscated from some shops, it was ruled out as the cause of death in this case. Nonetheless, Aldicarb remains illegal for public sale due to its toxic properties.
This incident has sparked public outcry, leading to heightened tensions in Naledi, where residents have called for greater scrutiny of spaza shops, particularly those selling imported or unregulated goods. Gauteng Finance MEC Lebogang Maile urged calm, addressing reports of anger in the community, which had led to instances of looting and the temporary shutdown of several foreign-owned shops in the area.
The Department of Basic Education has expressed concern over food safety around schools, noting the impact of food poisoning on students and school activities. They emphasised the need for safe environments for children and advised parents to discourage their children from purchasing snacks from unregulated vendors near school premises. This tragic event has drawn attention to the importance of food safety regulations and the potential dangers posed by unlicensed chemicals in South African communities.
As investigations continue, authorities remain committed to ensuring that South Africa’s public health standards are upheld. The government has taken a firm stance on enforcing regulations around pesticides, aiming to prevent similar tragedies in the future by clamping down on the illegal sale and distribution of toxic substances.
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