President Cyril Ramaphosa will soon address the nation on the government’s response to recent foodborne illnesses and fatalities. The incidents have claimed several lives, including children, and hospitalised many in Gauteng, Mpumalanga, the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State.
The presidency minister, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, confirmed the upcoming address during a post-cabinet briefing in Cape Town on Wednesday.
“The President will outline interventions aimed at addressing this tragic situation,” she said.
Investigating the source of the foodborne illness outbreak
The Department of Health has tasked the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD) with tracing and identifying the source of the contamination. Health officials revealed that Terbufos, a highly toxic organophosphate, caused the deaths of six children in Naledi, Soweto. The children reportedly consumed snacks bought from a local spaza shop.
In response, Ntshavheni explained that medical teams are equipped with atropine injections, an antidote for organophosphate poisoning, to treat any new cases.
“We are working swiftly to prevent further loss of life,” she added.
Strengthening local economy regulations
To address broader issues, the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, supported by the Department of Small Business Development, has introduced the Standard Draft By-laws for Township Economies. These by-laws aim to promote inclusive local economies and tackle illegal township business operations.
Security measures under review
Questions regarding deploying the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to spaza shops were dismissed. Ntshavheni clarified that the Justice, Crime Prevention, and Security Cluster, which oversees NATJOINTS operations, will manage the crisis.
“Ministerial committees are finalising their work, and a special Cabinet meeting may be convened to solidify our approach,” she said.
“The President’s address will follow once all necessary measures are in place.”
The Joint Planning Committee for Security will meet later today to finalise preparations for the address, which could occur as early as this week.
The Cabinet extended its condolences to the families, friends and schoolmates of all the children who lost their lives due to food-borne illnesses and well-wishes to those still in recovery.
What more should government do to prevent such tragedies?
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