Thembisa – A peaceful community march in Thembisa has led to the closure of several spaza shops, as residents demand urgent action over allegations that some are selling unsafe and expired food.
The protest, which drew a significant number of community members, was organised to highlight growing fears about public health risks linked to informal retail outlets reportedly owned or operated by foreign nationals.
Residents claim that some of these shops are distributing expired or substandard food products, putting consumers, particularly vulnerable households, at risk.
According to local reports from Thembisa Online, the situation also affected the Thembisa Plaza shopping complex, which was closed during the march. However, community members stationed themselves at the entrances to guard the premises, ensuring that no looting or vandalism occurred.
Community leaders emphasised that the protest was not driven by xenophobia, but by concerns over food safety and accountability. “We are not against anyone,” one resident said. “We are against practices that endanger our health. We want safe, regulated food for our families.”
Residents insist that their grievances have been raised repeatedly with authorities, but little has been done to address them. As a result, they say they will continue to mobilise until meaningful intervention is implemented, including stricter inspections and enforcement of food safety regulations.
The provincial government has yet to issue a formal response, but calls are mounting for health inspectors and law enforcement agencies to investigate the allegations and ensure compliance with safety standards.
