Tight bylaws for tuck-shops in Gauteng
“We are also starting the process of re-registration of spaza shops."
SEDIBENG.- Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi convened a meeting, to discuss the implementation of by-laws and regulations for the operation of tuck-shops in Gauteng.
The meeting, held in Johannesburg on Sunday, was attended by Members of the Executive Council, Mayors, Members of Mayoral Council (MMC’s), Speakers, Heads of Department (HOD’s) and Municipal Managers (MM’s) from Gauteng to discuss the implementation of by-laws and regulations for the operation of spaza shops in Gauteng.
“Our first task was to understand the problem,” Lesufi said.
He further announced that announced that Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) has adopted a uniform approach to respond to the outbreak of cases of food borne illnesses which have seen 441 cases reported across the province, claiming 23 young lives.
Lesufi also announced a ban on the sale of Terbufos (Organophosphate, commonly known as ‘Halephirime’ or ‘Mafenetha’) saying those seeking authorisation to use it would have to go through the provincial agriculture department. Terbufos is an agricultural insecticide with neurotoxic effects, which is commonly sold as a street pesticide in the townships.
It is sold at spaza shops and by informal vendors (mostly at taxi ranks) for as little as R10.
Health Minister, Aaron Motsoaledi last month revealed Terbufos was the cause of the deaths of six children in Naledi, Soweto.
“We now know what caused the majority of those particular deaths,” Lesufi said, adding that the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development will control the sale of the identified substance and Gauteng Health Department will develop a reporting tool for hospitals, schools, clinics as well as community centres for data collection and tracking of cases.”
“We are also starting the process of re-registration of spaza shops. MEC for Economic Development Lebogang Maile and all MMCs will develop (this) template, especially for businesses involved in illness and deaths of our children. We have formally adopted a draft gazette signed by the Minister of Departments: Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs. All municipalities within our province without exception will adopt this gazette. These are our new By-Laws,” Lesufi emphasised.
Key features of the By-Laws include:
- Any individual with a business license may now conduct business within designated areas, subject to local quotas that ensure equitable opportunities for South African citizens and residents.
- Municipalities are empowered to establish business zones, creating spaces specifically tailored to retail, industrial, and mixed-use enterprises.
- To further support township businesses, municipalities will facilitate workshops, training, and access to essential resources such as infrastructure and markets. This proactive approach helps small business owners improve operational capacity, while also promoting compliance with relevant laws and standards.
- The new standard draft by-laws introduce an efficient permit and registration system that provides clear guidelines for businesses, including both physical and online access to application forms. Municipal officials will assist applicants in the process, ensuring timely approvals and smooth operations for new and existing businesses.
- The by-laws mandate that all business activities align with public health and safety regulations. Regular inspections and public awareness campaigns will ensure that township businesses uphold the highest standards, protecting both entrepreneurs and the communities they serve.
- The bylaws will place a strong emphasis on skills development, mentorship, and market access initiatives to support businesses and help them thrive within local and broader markets.
