By Gift Sebiloane
Pretoria, South Africa — As the country continues to recover from a series of deadly food poisoning incidents in schools, the government has announced an extension to the registration deadline for spaza shops. This comes after widespread concerns over the initial 21-day timeframe, which was set to expire Wednesday, December18.
Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister, Velenkosi Hlabisa, announced the extension to February 28, 2025, during a press conference held earlier on Wednesday. This decision follows extensive consultations with stakeholders, including the National Informal Traders Alliance of South Africa (NITASA) and representatives of foreign-owned spaza shops.
“The government understands the concerns raised by some stakeholders regarding the registration deadline for spaza shops,” Minister Hlabisa acknowledged. “The initial deadline was set to address the urgent need to ensure compliance with health and safety standards following the tragic incidents of food-borne illnesses.”
The extension will allow spaza shop owners more time to gather the necessary documentation and navigate the registration process. This is particularly crucial for those from vulnerable communities and foreign nationals who face additional hurdles.
NITASA President Rosheda Muller, who had previously voiced concerns over the tight deadline in an interview with eNCA, welcomed the extension. “This is a positive development that will give spaza shop owners the opportunity to comply with the regulations without fear of losing their livelihoods,” she said.
So did Daniel Fikreyesus from the African Nations Group Global Alliance (ANGGA), representing foreign spaza shop owners — as he expressed his appreciation for the extension in an interview with Newzroom Afrka. He reiterated the challenges faced by many of their members in obtaining documentation from the Department of Home Affairs
While the extension provides a much-needed reprieve, Minister Hlabisa emphasised that the government remains committed to ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. “This process does not depend on whether you are registered or not. If you don’t comply with the health regulations, the business is closed down immediately,” he warned.
The government has assured spaza shop owners that support will be provided throughout the registration process. Designated customer care centres have been established to assist with applications and answer queries. (this previous NOWinSA article unpacks steps you need to take to get your spaza shop registered).
