The Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) strongly condemns the reported acts of violence and criminality targeting a newly established spaza shop owned by Ms Dimakatso Ndlovu in Slovo Park, near Coronationville in Johannesburg. Such incidents undermine efforts to promote entrepreneurship, threaten livelihoods and discourage economic participation in township communities.
Following a video circulating on social media in which Ms Ndlovu appealed for assistance, the Department contacted her directly to understand her circumstances and the challenges confronting her business.
Ms Ndlovu explained that she established her spaza shop using profits generated from her bakery business. However, within just two weeks of operating, her business reportedly experienced two criminal incidents.
According to Ms Ndlovu, the first incident involved a shooting at her business premises, resulting in a police case being opened and a suspect being arrested. She further reported that her shop was subsequently broken into, resulting in the theft of stock and damage to property.
These incidents have left Ms Ndlovu fearing for her safety and concerned about the future of her business. The Department is deeply troubled that an entrepreneur who has invested her own resources into establishing a business now faces circumstances threatening her livelihood and personal security.
No entrepreneur should have to choose between pursuing economic opportunities and protecting their personal safety.
Section 22 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, guarantees every citizen the right to choose their trade, occupation or profession freely, subject to the regulation of such activities by law. Acts of violence, intimidation and criminality undermine the ability of entrepreneurs to exercise this constitutional right and participate meaningfully in the economy.
The Department recognises that township entrepreneurs already face challenges, including limited access to finance, infrastructure, markets and business development support. Criminal activity further threatens the sustainability of their enterprises.
While criminal investigations remain the responsibility of law enforcement authorities, the Department calls on the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure that the reported incidents receive appropriate attention and that investigations proceed in accordance with the law.
The Department will facilitate engagement with the City of Johannesburg to assist Ms Ndlovu in understanding and meeting the necessary municipal trading and regulatory requirements.
Once Ms Ndlovu has obtained the necessary compliance documents, the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA) will provide guidance and assistance with her application to the Spaza Shop Support Fund, subject to the programme's eligibility criteria and approval processes. This intervention seeks to support her efforts to rebuild and strengthen her business.
The DSBD remains committed to advancing township and rural entrepreneurship, strengthening support for locally owned enterprises and working with municipalities, law enforcement agencies, business formations and community structures to safeguard businesses and promote peaceful economic participation.
The determination demonstrated by entrepreneurs such as Ms Ndlovu must be met with practical government support and an environment that protects their constitutional rights, safety, livelihoods and entrepreneurial aspirations.
Enquiries:
Media@dsbd.gov.za
Mr. Siphe Macanda: Head of Communications
Mobile: 082 355 2399
E-mail: SMacanda@dsbd.gov.za
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DepartmentOfSmallBusinessDevelopment
X: @DSBD_SA
Website: https://www.dsbd.gov.za/
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