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This morning, inspectors uncovered dented food which could be poisonous, sold in Supermarkets in Malukazi - Ward 89 in Umlazi.

The shops are owned by foreign nationals. Two undocumented foreign nationals have been arrested by the Home Affairs' Immigration Unit.

Inspectors from the Department's Business Regulations and Consumer Protection Unit - eThekwini Municipality and the Department of Health are acting in the interest of the people of this province.

They are supported by SAPS, Intelligence Officers and eThekwini Metro Police.

Township and rural based Spaza Shop owners have complained through our Business Regulations and Consumer Protection Unit about being forced out of the market by a syndicate that has infiltrated the Spaza Shop market.

In addition, consumers have also complained about their safety and the welfare of children.

As announced last week, this campaign is aimed at protecting local and honest entrepreneurs in the townships and rural areas.

We have strengthened our partnership with law enforcement agencies, Consumer Commission, National Competition Authority and Consumer Goods Council of South Africa.

We are also targeting manufactures of counterfeit goods including fake alcohol. The KZN Liquor Authority is  protecting more that 6000 genuine liquor license holders.

Importantly the Department's Moses Kotane Institute has conducted a study on Spaza Shops throughout the corners of the province. We now know exactly what needs to be done to assist them. This is part of stimulating township and rural economy.

As promised,  we will invite Spaza Shop owners to apply for a loan facility of up to R100 000;

·   R20 000 grant will also help them to acquire stock and to fund a shortfall of liquidity for social grants pay-outs;

·   About 960 Spaza Shops will be given speed points to pay social grants;

·   About 10 graduates will be employed and attached to this programme. They will earn R10 000 over 24 months.

We have reconfigured the Bulk Buying Warehouse in KwaSithebe, Mandeni with a cost of more than R4 million. The first bulk purchase of food for spaza shops is valued at more than R4,1 million.

As we prepare to assist our legitimate entrepreneurs, we will make these unannounced visits and raids throughout the province.

Issued by the Leader of Government Business and MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs Siboniso Duma