Central SA
Calls for stricter food safety measures after North West child’s death─── KEKELETSO MOSEBETSI 11:56 Wed, 27 Nov 2024
The North West Department of Education has called for stricter oversight of food safety following another tragic incident involving food poisoning linked to a spaza shop, this time in a village 50km north of Jan Kempdorp.
A toddler (2) died, and their sibling, a Grade R learner from Tshipo Mangwegape Primary School, was hospitalised after consuming snacks purchased from a local spaza shop on Sunday (24/11).
The older child was rushed to Taung District Hospital, where they are recovering as authorities await laboratory results to confirm the cause of the suspected foodborne illness.
‘Urgent need for stricter oversight of food safety’
North West Education MEC Viola Motsumi expressed her profound sorrow over the tragedy. “It’s deeply disheartening to witness such a tragic loss of life and the suffering of a young learner due to suspected foodborne illness.
“I extend my sincere condolences to the family and wish the Grade R learner a full and speedy recovery.”
She emphasised the importance of vigilance when purchasing food, particularly from informal vendors. “This incident underscores the urgent need for stricter oversight of food safety in our communities to prevent such tragedies.”
The department will deploy a team led by a psychologist to provide support to the grieving family and the hospitalised learner, said North West Education spokesperson Mphata Molokwane.
Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the source of the foodborne illness.
