Knysna: The Municipality urged the local businesses to ensure trading compliance. Knysna Municipality has called on businesses, particularly the ones which handle food to act swiftly and responsibly considering the recent classification of foodborne diseases under Government Gazette No. 51624, which was published on Nov 19, 2024.
Reportedly, Knysna Executive – Mayor Aubrey Tsengwa confirmed that the municipality is committed to safeguard the public health in partnership with key stakeholders.
Tsengwa confirmed that they have outlined stringent measures to ensure compliance and prevent further food-related tragedies. He added that the businesses must uphold the highest standards of hygiene and compliance to ensure that the food they sell does not pose threat to their health.
According to the Mayor of Knysna, the officials should enforce these regulations to protect the public. He said that all food-handling businesses, including spaza shops and informal traders must register with the municipality within twenty-one days of the formal publication of the Gazette.
The registration will ensure compliance with health and safety standards and non-compliance will result in immediate closure.
As per the reports, by the Knysna Municipality Informal Trading By-law and the House Shops Policy applicants will have to show their citizen status. In relevant cases, the passport, section 22 asylum seeker permit, section 24 refugee permit and a valid visa allowing the applicant to be in and work or conduct business in the country.
An affidavit stated that the applicant has not engaged in the trade of illegal goods, as defined by the law. The business will operate according to the applicable norms and standards that must accompany the application.
Furthermore, all documents will be submitted to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for vetting and the municipality may conduct background checks on applicants to verify the legality of their business activities.
Businesses are also required to adopt strict food storage practices that ensure food is stored separately from chemicals, detergents and hazardous substances.
Considering hygiene, food must be prepared and handled in sanitary conditions with appropriate washing facilities. The sale of banned products such as unregistered pesticides is prohibited. Also, the violators will face prosecution.
Mayor Tsengwa said that a local task team has been established to strengthen enforcement. The team consists of representatives from the municipality, also the Garden Route District Municipality, the Department of Home Affairs and the SAPS.
Notably, the team will conduct regular, unannounced compliance blitzes across the area. If, businesses found violating regulations will face immediate action, including closure and prosecution.
Aubrey Tsengwa concluded his statement and said that the safety of the residents, especially the children, is a shared responsibility. By working together, as government, businesses and residents, they can prevent further tragedies and ensure the well-being of the community.
It is to be considered that the integrated inspection teams will begin inspecting establishments from Dec 01, 2024. The Knysna Municipality will further continue with the ongoing public awareness campaigns alongside the law enforcement, with the purpose to educate businesses and residents on food safety standards and best practices.