Public Protector blames Gauteng municipalities for food safety failures

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A damning Public Protector report has found serious weaknesses in Gauteng's food safety system, pointing to a severe shortage of environmental health practitioners and poor compliance by local government. The investigation followed a wave of food poisoning incidents in late 2024 that claimed the lives of at least 23 children in the province. The report says Gauteng has only a fraction of the environmental health inspectors it needs and calls for urgent action to strengthen food safety oversight and protect communities. Phemelo discussed the findings and the province's response with Gauteng Government spokesperson Elijah Mhlanga.
20 Jul 3PM English South Africa Education · Careers

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