Babalo Ndenze29 November 2024 | 4:35

Ramaphosa says over 1,000 spaza shops, warehouses shut down since sector regulation call

Ramaphosa told the NCOP on Thursday that authorities have raided thousands of spaza shops as government continues its nationwide blitz following the deaths of several children who ate contaminated food bought at spazas around the country.

Ramaphosa says over 1,000 spaza shops, warehouses shut down since sector regulation call

President Cyril Ramaphosa. Picture: @PresidencyZA/X

CAPE TOWN - President Cyril Ramaphsoa says more than 1,000 spaza shops and warehouses have been shut down since he called for the sector to be regulated two weeks ago.

Ramaphosa told the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) on Thursday that authorities have raided thousands of spaza shops as the government continues its nationwide blitz following the deaths of several children who ate contaminated food bought at spazas around the country.

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Ramaphosa was making his annual address to the NCOP on Thursday, where he briefed delegates on issues affecting the country.

“Nearly 200,000 spaza shops have been visited. More than 1,000 spaza shops, supermarkets, and warehouses have had to be closed down.”

He said they’ve also confiscated large amounts of goods.

“Large quantities of goods have been confiscated and numerous fines have been levied and issued for violations of bylaws.”