Spaza shop informal businesses are crucial cogs in the township economy.
Mention spaza shops and, for many people, what comes to mind are images of illegal immigrants who operate outside the law, pay no tax and, as a result, are often the victims of xenophobia. But this is a complicated sector, and there is far more to it than meets the eye of the average suburban shopper.
The Solidarity Fund and other donors distributed thousands of food parcels across the country, but food parcel distribution is expensive and dangerous. “Small traders don’t have a lot of money themselves to feed their families, but will be the first to support community projects, the first to extend credit or share a half loaf with someone who cannot afford to pay for it,” says Carol Pieper, head of operations at Flash. Spaza shop owners are now supporting the vaccination drive, hanging posters in their small shops or on the outside walls.
But that is a story for another day. In the meantime, we salute spaza owners for the important role they played in bringing food relief to communities during a particularly difficult time.Restaurant Association of SA CEO Wendy Alberts talks fast. Very fast. And, right now, she seems to be talking faster than usual as the anxiety and apprehension of the restaurant industry settles around her shoulders.
Being a voice for the industry is not Rasa’s only purpose. The association provides business, technical and legal support as well. With a background in corporate finance and franchising, Alberts believes a solution can be found to most problems. After all, it is not in a landlord or supplier’s interest to see a business fail.
Whether Mavuso is encouraging the adoption of vaccine passports, talking about the importance of institutional integrity, suggesting a review of South Africa’s labour legislation, or banging a drum for structural reform, her views are informed, robust and always on point. She enjoys the support of her constituency – big business – probably because they can cheer her on from the safety of their offices while she goes to war on their behalf.
On the whole, readers agreed with our shortlisted candidates, with a few exceptions. We had not considered Greta Thunberg as a candidate for International Person of the Year, but so many readers nominated her that she earned enough mentions to be a runner-up in that category. Africa Person of the Year – a person who has made an outstanding contribution on the African continent this year.
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