ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba inspects spaza shops in KwaMashu’s Siyanda area, calling for stricter government measures following a deadly food poisoning outbreak. Image: Mashaba’s shared via Facebook
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(The Post News)- ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba is demanding an immediate government shutdown of all spaza shops owned by foreign nationals, following a food poisoning outbreak that has left 23 people dead since last month. Mashaba has called on authorities to deploy the army to inspect and shut down these businesses, especially those run by undocumented immigrants, citing public health risks.
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During his recent visit to KwaMashu’s Siyanda area, Mashaba inspected spaza shops and voiced concerns over alleged illegal activities, including expired food sales and drug distribution, endangering local communities. “Our children buy rotten food, and some shops are drug dens,” he said, pointing to wider public safety issues and calling for stronger enforcement.
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Mashaba also argued for a constitutional amendment to prevent foreign nationals from operating such businesses in South Africa. Although he acknowledged the positive role of legal migrants in the country’s history, he criticized what he described as widespread disregard for laws by some foreign-run spaza shops.Â
This stance has ignited debate, with some supporting stricter control over informal businesses, while others fear it could spark xenophobic violence. The government has yet to respond, though health officials are reportedly planning inspections.
Mashaba’s comments highlight a broader conversation on public health, immigration policy, and the regulation of informal markets in South Africa.
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