City of Ekurhuleni officials inspected a spaza shop in Vosloorus on Wednesday, 27 May. Photo by Gallo Images
EKURHULENI to intensify spaza shop compliance and food safety inspections.
Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, together with provincial and municipal leaders, conducted compliance and food safety inspections at spaza shops across Vosloorus and Palm Ridge on Tuesday, 27 May.
The operation forms part of the city’s ongoing efforts to enforce municipal by-laws, and address concerns relating to the operation of informal businesses in communities.
During inspections, officials assessed whether businesses complied with health, fire safety, zoning, and licencing requirements.
The city also engaged with business owners to help them understand legal processes required to formalise and regularise their operations.
Xhakaza said: “We can’t allow businesses to operate without proper approval, fire safety compliance, and the necessary municipal processes being followed.”
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The mayor said the city is also assisting business owners through workshops and support programmes aimed at helping them formalise their operations.
“Once businesses are fully documented, they can benefit from government support programmes, including vouchers, funding opportunities, and business development support,” he said.
He raised concerns about property owners who unlawfully convert residential properties into business or rental spaces without municipal approval.
“We must act against these violations because they affect service delivery and community safety,” said the mayor.
Business owners will be assisted with land use applications, zoning requirements, fire and health compliance, Sars registration, and Companies and Intellectual Property Commission registration.