eMalahleni – The eMalahleni Local Municipality has resumed its tuck shop registration programme following a temporary suspension due to protests earlier this week.
The registration drive, which was initially postponed after backlash from residents and stakeholders, is now being rolled out across the municipality’s three regions to ensure compliance with trading by-laws and to protect public health.
The programme was launched after President Cyril Ramaphosa directed all municipalities to register spaza shops and food-handling businesses within 21 days. The directive, issued on 15 November 2024, followed a national outcry over the deaths of schoolchildren caused by foodborne illnesses. This initiative forms part of a broader effort to regulate businesses, remove hazardous substances from circulation, and safeguard communities.
Earlier this week, a meeting held at the eMalahleni Civic Theatre Hall to begin the registration process was disrupted by protests. Residents and stakeholders raised concerns about the registration of undocumented foreign nationals operating spaza shops, claiming the programme might legitimize illegal businesses. Many residents expressed dissatisfaction with what they perceived as a lack of prioritization for local entrepreneurs.
Executive Mayor, Councillor Vusi Nhlapho, addressed the matter by temporarily suspending the registration to allow for consultation. Nhlapho emphasized that the programme was never intended to benefit undocumented foreign nationals but rather to assist local South African business owners in formalizing their operations.
The Mayor noted that the municipality had been adhering to the President’s call to register unregistered spaza shops but was met with dissatisfaction from members of the community and other stakeholders.
He stated that their concerns mainly revolved around the perception that the municipality was trying to legalize undocumented foreign nationals running spaza shops in Emalahleni. Nhlapho clarified that this was not the case and reiterated that the intention of the programme was to specifically support South Africans.
He also reflected on the municipality’s efforts over the past two months to combat the sale of contaminated food in the community, emphasizing that the health and safety of residents remain a priority.
The Mayor called on everyone to abide by the law and urged the community to be patient while awaiting a council resolution that will outline the final steps of the programme.
The registration process has now resumed at various municipal offices, with spaza shop and tuck shop owners encouraged to register.
Applicants are expected to meet minimum requirements, including proof of identity, zoning certificates, and compliance with municipal by-laws.
The municipality will license all qualifying businesses and issue permits, while non-compliant businesses risk penalties such as fines, confiscation of goods, or closure.
This initiative, in line with the directive issued by the President, aims to formalize local businesses, enhance public safety, and support the growth of the township economy.
The Mayor reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to working together with the community to address concerns and ensure the success of the programme.
