In an address from the Union Buildings, President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep concern over a troubling increase in food-borne illnesses that have claimed the lives of at least 22 children in recent weeks.
He confirmed that since September, 890 cases of food-related illnesses have been reported across the country, with Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal experiencing the highest numbers.
The President emphasized that these deaths represent a national tragedy, noting that “the young children who died weren’t just children of their families; they were our children.”
The surge in illnesses has prompted extensive investigations. Initial findings by the National Institute for Communicable Diseases indicate that some deaths, including those of six children in Naledi, Soweto, resulted from exposure to Terbufos, a toxic pesticide intended strictly for agricultural use but often sold informally in townships to combat rodent infestations.
President Ramaphosa confirmed that samples taken from Naledi spaza shops showed evidence of Terbufos, sometimes found near food items, creating conditions for cross-contamination.
Government Response and New Measures
Following a series of Cabinet meetings, President Ramaphosa outlined three key interventions to address the crisis.
The president revealed that one will be the removal of hazardous pesticides, The president said, “The government will intensify inspections of spaza shops and informal food vendors to remove illegal pesticides from circulation.
“Shops implicated in recent poisoning cases will be closed immediately, and a 21-day registration deadline has been imposed on all food-handling businesses, after which unregistered or non-compliant establishments will face closure.
“Protection of children from exposure where the government is launching an educational campaign to raise awareness about food safety and pesticide risks, targeting parents, schools, and communities.
“Schools will also receive updated guidelines on food safety management and be prohibited from storing certain chemicals on their premises.
“Preventing future outbreaks where the government plans to address root causes, including waste management issues that drive rodent infestations, particularly in impoverished areas.
“Municipalities will be mandated to improve waste management, with oversight by the Ministerial Health Advisory Committee.
“Additionally, all deaths of children under 12 will now be reported in the Notifiable Medical Condition Surveillance System to monitor and respond to potential outbreaks more effectively.”
Meanwhile, to support community businesses affected by these measures, the government will establish a R500 million joint fund for township and rural stores.
The fund will aid with refurbishment, regulatory compliance, and capacity building, ensuring that businesses operate safely while continuing to serve their communities.
President Ramaphosa urged South Africans to remain vigilant about food safety and report any suspicious practices to the National Consumer Commission.
“By working together, by enforcing the law, by being alert and responsible, we will be able to bring an end to these tragedies,” he concluded.