South Africa bans 'halephirimi' after Soweto food poisoning tragedy

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The South African government has officially banned the importation and use of Terbufos, commonly known as, halephirimi, following the food poisoning deaths of children in Soweto last year. These deaths were linked to food contaminated with the toxic pesticide, which is classified as an organophosphate.

The move also follows an investigation by the Inter-Ministerial Committee on food-borne illnesses, which focused heavily on the dangers of organophosphate pesticides.

‘Halephirimi’ exposure traced to spaza shops

The food poisoning, which claimed the lives of several children, drew national outrage. The snacks they consumed were reportedly bought from a local spaza shop.

Although the exact source of exposure remains unclear, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said at a media briefing in Cape Town, “the possibility that the children consumed food contaminated with Terbufos purchased from a local spaza shop remains the most viable explanation”.

Furthermore, in response to the food poisoning incident, President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered the registration of all spaza shops across the country to regulate informal food trade and reduce risks linked to unregulated products.

Safer Alternatives for Farmers

Terbufos, which farmers use widely to control pests, will now be phased out. The Department of Agriculture will lead a consultation process to identify and promote safer alternatives.

“The Department of Agriculture will lead the consultation process on the ban in line with its 2010 Plan to eradicate poisonous insecticides and pesticides over a period of time,” Ntshavheni explained.

“[It will] also work on identifying safer alternatives to Terbufos.”

Several other Southern African Development Community countries, including Mozambique, Namibia, Angola and Zambia, have already banned Terbufos, reinforcing the urgency of South Africa’s decision.