Some of the parents, whose children died after allegedly consuming snacks bought from spaza shops in Naledi, Soweto, between 2023 and 2024, have called on the government to help with tombstones in honour of their children.

Naledi, a Soweto township, experienced the death of six children.

Parents and community members, during a ceremony held at the Naledi Hall in Soweto, reflected on the tragedies that sparked the call for the government to enforce strict regulations on spaza shops.

In October last year, the township was at the centre of poisoning claims after six children aged between 8 and 11, died allegedly after eating snacks bought at a local spaza shop.

A year prior, also in October, the township reported four deaths of children, who were believed to have died after eating snacks allegedly bought from local spaza shops.

Joseph Sathekge, the father of six-year-old Monica Sebetwana/Sathekge, called for the government to intervene and help families with tombstones in remembrance of the death of their children, Karabo Rampou (9), Njabulo Msimanga (7), Zinhle Ida Maama (7), and Isago Mabote (8).

“We thank the community and everyone, including the police and other departments, who have made this day of remembrance for our children possible. Our wish is to never experience what we experienced last year. We, as parents, are still pained by this tragedy, and it would be a great gesture if the government would assist with tombstones, so we can honour our children,” he said.

During a ceremony, which included a prayer session, speakers comforted the families and called for an end to gang violence and other social ills plaguing the township.

Speaking on behalf of the National Prosecuting Authority, Valencia Kgame called on parents to better take care of the well-being of their children in light of GBV and violence against children.

“Our children have died, and there is too much GBV because mothers have shifted from their positions. Our culture has been taken away from us, and children enjoy too many rights.

“Let’s return to our basics, so we can have better leaders of tomorrow. We have allowed our neighbours to abuse us and tell us what to do in our homes. Where are the watchmen to watch over our townships?” Kgame said. 

siyabonga.sithole@inl.co.za

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