Acting executive mayor launches safety and compliance campaign with Diepsloot visit
Amid concerns over food safety and compliance, acting Executive Mayor Eunice Mgcina kicks off the Spaza Shop By-law Enforcement Campaign with a visit to local spaza shops in Diepsloot.
Acting executive mayor of Johannesburg, councillor Eunice Mgcina, officially launched the Spaza Shop By-law Enforcement Campaign in Diepsloot.
She visited Ward 95 to inspect health and safety standards, check for compliance with business licensing regulations, and identify the sale of expired or illicit goods in spaza shops.
This proactive initiative seeks to address health and safety concerns associated with spaza shops, which serve as a vital lifeline for many communities across Johannesburg.
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Mgcina, accompanied by municipal officials and law enforcement officers, engaged with shop owners and customers, emphasising the importance of adhering to health and safety regulations.
“In light of recent reports of food contamination and the sale of expired or illicit products, this campaign is a necessary step to protect public health. We aim to ensure that every spaza shop operates within the law and provides safe, quality products to our communities,” said Mgcina.
The inspections focused on identifying expired food items, assessing storage and cleanliness standards, and verifying that businesses possessed the necessary licences. Notices were issued to some shop owners to address specific concerns promptly, while environmental health personnel confiscated products deemed unsuitable for sale for further inspection.
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Diepsloot residents, who heavily rely on these informal shops, welcomed the initiative. “It’s reassuring to see that the city cares about our health. We need to trust the food we buy for our families.” said local Ward 95 shopper Sizeka Maphekula.
The Diepsloot campaign marks the start of a city-wide effort, beginning in Regions A and D, with plans to extend to all city regions in the coming weeks. Mgcina encouraged the public to support the initiative by reporting non-compliant businesses and raising awareness about the importance of food safety.
“The City of Johannesburg reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that spaza shops, a backbone of local commerce, operate responsibly. By addressing safety concerns and promoting compliance, the city hopes to build trust between shop operators and the communities they serve,” said Mgcina.
As the day’s inspections concluded, she stressed, “This is not just about enforcement; it’s about partnership. Together, we can make Johannesburg a safer and healthier city for everyone.”
Mgcina further noted that the campaign’s success depends on sustained collaboration between the city, business owners, and residents, ensuring that the vibrant culture of spaza shops continues to thrive safely and lawfully.
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