Foodborne illnesses declared a national disaster: Over 25 children dead
Government moves to tighten food safety standards after alarming spike in poisoning cases.
In a significant move, the National Disaster Management Centre has officially declared foodborne illnesses a national disaster.
Read more: Festive food made easy
The declaration, made on November 21, follows the alarming rise in cases across South Africa, with nearly 1,000 reported nationwide.
Tragically, over 25 children have lost their lives due to suspected food poisoning, including six in Naledi, Soweto.
Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Free State, and Mpumalanga have been the hardest-hit provinces.
Justice Minister Thembi Simelane confirmed that the National Disaster Act’s classification galvanises all sectors to adhere strictly to food safety standards and legislation.
Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.
Related article: Rethinking food systems for South Africa
