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Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has expressed deep concern over the low compliance rate of spaza shop registrations, despite extensive awareness campaigns and an extended national deadline.
The metro said while today is the final day for registration, it noted that out of 1 637 spaza shops they say are operating in the Metro, 1 136 applications were received.
However, the mayoral committee member for public health, Thshonono Buyeye, says of this number, 843 were incomplete, making them invalid.
Buyeye said just 293 applications, or 18%, of spaza shop owners, submitted complete and compliant applications.
“We are extremely disappointed with the poor response. Since the President’s announcement and the deadline extension in December, we have gone all out to raise awareness, inspect shops, and guide owners on compliance.
“Now that the deadline has passed, we have no choice but to enforce the law,” he said.
He noted that of the 1,637 spaza shops in Nelson Mandela Bay, approximately 90% are owned by foreign nationals.
Buyeye added that the local authority will intensify enforcement efforts, urging those who were declined to rectify their applications and reapply.
“Our raids will continue. The law is now clear, and we will act decisively to restore order in this critical sector.
“We call on the public to support these efforts as we work to ensure a safe and compliant business environment for all,” Buyeye added.
