Following the closure of several shops in town on Friday (June 19) and Monday (June 22), Mayor Zama Sibisi has reassured business owners and residents that the municipality’s ongoing compliance operation is not targeting any specific group.

The mayor met with affected shop owners this morning (June 24) to address concerns and explain the reasons behind the enforcement operation, which has been conducted in partnership with several government departments and agencies.

Multi-department operation targets non-compliance

According to the mayor, the campaign is being carried out jointly with stakeholders including the SAPS, Department of Health, uThukela District Municipality and other relevant authorities.

Sibisi confirmed that shops were closed on Friday and Monday, stressing that the operation is aimed at ensuring that businesses comply with municipal by-laws and legal requirements rather than targeting local or foreign-owned businesses.

“During our meeting with them (affected shop owners), we explained that it’s not like we targeted anybody. We simply want everything to be in order in our town and to be in line with municipal by-laws,” he said.

Assistance available for business owners

The mayor revealed that municipal officials are currently assisting business owners who have documentation proving compliance or who need assistance in regularising their operations.

“As we speak, we have municipal officials who are busy assisting those who have papers and want to prove that they are compliant. Those who are found to be complying, their shops will be opened immediately,” he said.

This process is expected to help compliant businesses resume operations as quickly as possible, while ensuring that all establishments meet the required standards.

Expired food among the concerns uncovered

The mayor indicated that the compliance campaign will continue, as authorities have identified several issues that require urgent attention.

Among the concerns is the issue of shops allegedly selling expired food items, raising health and safety concerns for consumers.

The mayor said these findings demonstrate the importance of continued inspections to protect residents and ensure that businesses operate responsibly.

Focus also on informal traders

The municipality’s enforcement efforts are not limited to formal businesses. Sibisi said that authorities are also focusing on informal traders operating in the streets, including salon operators and mechanics.

The municipality believes that proper regulation of informal trading will contribute to a safer, cleaner and more organised business environment.

Shops to re-open once requirements are met

Concluding his address, the mayor reiterated that the municipality’s goal is compliance rather than punishment. He encouraged affected business owners to work with municipal officials and ensure that their documentation is in order.

“I believe we understood each other. When their papers are in order, their shops will be opened,” Sibisi concluded.

As the campaign continues, municipal officials are expected to maintain inspections across the town while assisting businesses in meeting the necessary legal and regulatory requirements.

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