Eleven learners from Sinamuva Primary School in Imbali outside Pietermaritzburg have been rushed to a local clinic following a suspected food poisoning incident.
According to reports, the learners fell ill after eating chips and snacks.
KwaZulu-Natal Education Department spokesperson Muzi Mahlambi says district officials have been dispatched to the school to conduct a thorough investigation.
“As the Department of Education in KwaZulu-Natal, we can confirm that we have received reports of alleged food poisoning of learners in Sinamuva school who were taken to Imbali clinic yesterday.”
“We have since dispatched our district officials to the school this morning to gather more information on the matter.”
Meanwhile, residents of Mthwalume on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast are calling for the closure of spaza shops in the area.
This follows an alleged food poisoning incident at Bongucele Secondary School in the area.
Seven learners were rushed to hospital after eating chips purchased from local spaza shops.
Chairperson of the school governing body at Bongucele Secondary School, Zanele Shozi says, “Shortly after consumption, the children fell ill and began vomiting.”
“Thankfully, teachers notified the parents, and the children received medical attention at the hospital. They have since recovered and returned to school.”
“As concerned parents, we urge the police to intervene due to ongoing concerns about these spaza shops selling expired food and potentially counterfeit products.”
Shozi says, “Their proximity makes them convenient, but with Boxer stores being farther away, we often have no alternative.”
“We sincerely hope the authorities will address this public health risk and consider shutting down these spaza shops to ensure our community’s well-being.”
