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Municipal Health

17 Augustus Openbare Bewusmaking: Voedselveiligheid tydens kragonderbrekings in die Oudtshoorn munisipale gebied

Openbare Bewusmaking: Voedselveiligheid tydens kragonderbrekings in die Oudtshoorn munisipale gebied

17 Augustus 2026

Die Oudtshoorn munisipale area is tans sonder elektrisiteit. Voedsel kan gedurende hierdie tyd vinnig bederf indien dit nie behoorlik gestoor of hanteer word nie. Deur te weet wat om te doen, kan almal help om voedselgedraagde siektes te voorkom.

Hieronder volg ’n paar eenvoudige, maar belangrike voedselveiligheidswenke.

Hoe om jou kos langer koud te hou

Een van die belangrikste dinge om tydens ’n kragonderbreking te onthou, is om die yskas- en vrieskasdeure so veel as moontlik toe te hou. Hoewel geen elektrisiteit gebruik word terwyl die deure toe bly nie, behou die yskas die koue temperatuur vir ’n langer tydperk en vertraag dit dus die bederf van bederfbare voedsel.

Indien die kragonderbreking in ’n gebied voortduur, oorweeg dit om ’n koelhouer met yspakke te gebruik vir voedsel wat koud gehou moet word, soos melk, vleis, eiers en oorskietkos.

Watter voedselsoorte word as hoërisiko-voedsel beskou?

Rou vleis, hoender, seekos, suiwelprodukte en gaar oorskietkos is hoërisiko-voedselsoorte en moet ná ’n kragonderbreking noukeurig nagegaan word.

Rakstabiele voedselsoorte, soos blikkieskos, onoopgemaakte vrugtesappe, grondboontjiebotter en droë ontbytgraan, is oor die algemeen veiliger tydens lang kragonderbrekings.

Onthou hierdie belangrike reëls: Indien voedsel vreemd ruik, ongewoon lyk of warm voel wanneer dit koud behoort te wees, gooi dit weg. Ontdooide voedsel moet ook nie weer gevries word nie.

Wat is veilige temperature?

Voedselveiligheid is sterk afhanklik van temperatuur. Indien bederfbare voedsel vir langer as twee uur aan temperature bo die veilige temperatuur blootgestel was, is dit die veiligste om dit weg te gooi.

Hoe om higiëne tydens storms te handhaaf

Storms kan soms watervoorrade beïnvloed. Dit is die beste om veilige water te gebruik of water te kook voordat dit gebruik word.

Was jou hande met seep en skoon water voordat jy voedsel hanteer. Indien skoon en veilige water beperk is, gebruik handreiniger wat minstens 60% alkohol bevat.

Maak ook seker dat kombuisoppervlaktes, eetgerei en houers skoon gehou word om besoedeling of kruisbesmetting te voorkom.

Hoe kan jy vir noodgevalle voorberei?

Voorbereiding kan ’n groot verskil tydens noodgevalle maak. Hou ’n noodvoorraadstel met die volgende items gereed:

  • Yspakke
  • ’n Voedseltermometer
  • Gebottelde water
  • ’n Flits
  • ’n Handmatige blikoopmaker
  • Nie-bederfbare voedsel

Deur voorbereid te wees, kan jy stres verminder en jou huishouding veiliger hou tydens langdurige kragonderbrekings.

Vir meer inligting of om onhigiëniese praktyke deur voedselhanteerders aan te meld, kontak die volgende persone:

Johan Compion
Senior Bestuurder: Munisipale Gesondheid, Vaste Afvalbestuur en Luggehalte
E-pos: info@gardenroute.gov.za
044 803 1300 / 082 803 516

Klein Karoo & Kannaland
Desmond Paulse
Bestuurder: Munisipale Gesondheid (Klein Karoo)
94 St Johnstraat, Oudtshoorn
044 272 2241 / 083 678 6530

17 August 2026 Media Release: Promoting Sustainable Waste Management Through Education and Awareness – Van Wyksdorp Primary School

Media Release: Promoting Sustainable Waste Management Through Education and Awareness – Van Wyksdorp Primary School

17 August 2026

 The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) continues to promote responsible waste management and environmental protection through education and community awareness. The recent activities in Van Wyksdorp highlighted the importance of teaching learners and educators about responsible waste management and sustainable practices.

On Friday, 24 July 2026, the GRDM Waste Management Section conducted a Green School Recycling Program rollout at Van Wyksdorp Primary School. The initiative focused on increasing environmental awareness among learners and educators while promoting responsible waste management, source separation, recycling and the prevention of littering.

Approximately 123 learners, together with educators and relevant stakeholders, participated in the program. Learners were introduced to the importance of the 3Rs – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle and were encouraged to incorporate these principles into their daily lives.

The learners also received information on different types of recyclable materials and the importance of placing waste in the correct recycling containers. Attention was given to the consequences of littering and illegal dumping, including their negative impact on communities, water resources, animals and the broader environment.

A practical component of the program was a tree-planting activity, which promoted environmental conservation while commemorating World Nature Conservation Day. The activity gave learners an opportunity to translate the environmental principles discussed during the program into practical action.

“The programme was well received by both learners and educators. Learners participated enthusiastically and showed a good understanding of the importance of keeping their school and community clean. The practical activities encouraged participation and reinforced the message that everyone has a role to play in protecting the environment,” said Innocentia Sikweyiya, GRDM District Waste Management Officer.

Educators welcomed the initiative and supported teaching learners about waste management, recycling and environmental protection.

Learners were also encouraged to share what they learned with their families and communities, helping to promote responsible waste management at home.

-END-

 

22 July 2026 Media Release: Environmental Health Practitioners Conduct Joint Spaza Shop Blitz in Thembalethu

Media Release: Environmental Health Practitioners Conduct Joint Spaza Shop Blitz in Thembalethu

20 July 2026

Today, Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) from the Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) George Municipal Health Section conducted a joint compliance blitz at spaza shops in Zone 9, Thembalethu.

The operation was carried out in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS), the George Municipality’s Planning Department, and George Municipality Law Enforcement officers.

Among those participating in the operation were GRDM Executive Mayor, Alderman Marais Kruger, and George Municipality Councillor Stag Cronjé. During a briefing held at Thembalethu Square before the inspections commenced, Executive Mayor Kruger expressed his appreciation to all stakeholders for working together towards a common goal.

He encouraged the various departments to continue conducting joint operations more frequently, emphasising that collaboration strengthens relationships between the different spheres of government  while ultimately benefiting the community. He also thanked everyone for their dedication and hard work.

The inspections primarily focused on:

  • Compliance with Regulation 638, which sets out structural and hygiene requirements for food premises.
  • Adherence to Labelling Regulation 146, including the correct use of “best before”, “sell by”, and “use by” dates.
  • Verification of accurate ingredient labelling.
  • Identification and removal of damaged, expired, or otherwise non-compliant food products.

Similar joint blitz operations are conducted regularly across all municipal areas in the Garden Route. These inspections form part of the Garden Route District Municipality’s ongoing commitment to protecting public health, promoting food safety, and ensuring that food businesses comply with the relevant food safety legislation.

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29 June 2026 Media Release: Designing a Greener Future in George: A Collective Stand for Cleaner Communities

Media Release: Designing a Greener Future in George: A Collective Stand for Cleaner Communities

29 June 20265

What started as the vision of a single South African Police Service officer has evolved into a collaborative community initiative, bringing together government departments, local and district municipalities, private businesses and groups, the local business chamber, schools and educators, taking a united stand against waste. With a shared commitment to building cleaner and safer communities, and a simple yet powerful message: ‘what we throw away can be used again.’

This year’s ‘Designing a Greener Future in George’ event, the second of its kind, took place on Thursday, 25 June 2026, at the Conville Civic Centre in George. The event was attended by all stakeholders involved in the initiative, including learners from nine high schools, who displayed their creativity and innovation through projects promoting recycling and environmental awareness. Their designs and ‘creations’ showed how young people can play a vital role in building safer, cleaner and more sustainable communities.

From the outset of the event, the programme director, guest speakers and performers all echoed the same message: everyone has a role to play in building cleaner, greener and more sustainable communities. Through their presentations and performances, they encouraged learners and attendees to take responsibility for protecting the environment and making a positive difference in their communities, as well as highlighting the importance of recycling and its impact on the environment.

The representative from the recycling company highlighted the importance of proper waste management systems, explaining that much of what is commonly regarded as waste consists of recyclable materials that can be recovered, reused, and transformed into valuable resources. She explained that many people rely on recycling as a source of income and stressed that these materials should not be viewed as waste.

She further explained that the concept of throwing something “away” is misleading, as waste does not simply disappear but remains on earth for generations. Encouraging a shift in mindset, she challenged attendees to become “waste warriors” by taking responsibility for reducing waste in their communities. Through simple daily actions, such as recycling, reusing materials, and refraining from littering, every individual can contribute to protecting the environment and creating cleaner, more sustainable communities.

In his address, the Garden Route District Municipality’s MMC for Community Services, Cllr Jobieth Hoogbaard, firstly engaged with the learners and encouraged them with the following words: “Today is your day. You are here not only to participate, but to demonstrate leadership, creativity and responsibility. Through your designs, your performances and your ideas, you have the power to make a difference.”

Referring to the theme of the event, ‘Designing a Greener Future,’ Hoogbaard stated that the future does not simply happen by itself, but is shaped by the decisions we make, the values we uphold and the actions we take every day. He said: “If we want safer communities, cleaner neighbourhoods and a healthier environment, then we must work together to design that future.”

Cllr Hoogbaard encouraged all present to become true leaders, describing leadership as the consistent choice to do what is right, even when no one is watching. “Leadership is picking up litter when others walk past it. Leadership is refusing to take part in vandalism and saying no to crime, drugs and violence.”

In closing, Cllr Hoogbaard challenged all learners to leave the event not only as participants, but as ambassadors for change, urging them to be advocates for cleaner schools, safer streets, healthier environments and stronger, more positive communities.

Judy Westraad, Chairperson of the George Business Chamber, described young people as the future and encouraged adults to support and mentor them so they can one day become successful business owners and leaders. She also unpacked the meaning behind the George Business Chamber’s logo, explaining that its puzzle pieces symbolising how every individual forms part of a greater whole. She further explained  that when everyone plays their part, whether by keeping the environment clean, avoiding littering, or contributing positively to the community they live in, they collectively make a meaningful difference.

A passionate vote of thanks was delivered by SAPS Officer Slinger, who expressed her appreciation to all stakeholders present, with special recognition given to the teachers for their dedication in preparing and supporting the learners. She commended their efforts in ensuring that the learners were ready, focused, and engaged despite the demands of the ongoing examinations.

In closure, Slinger appealed to George Municipal Law Enforcement, local spaza shop owners, and community members present to assist in combating illegal dumping in the community. She encouraged all those present, including the learners, to take a stand, raise their voices, and act as ambassadors by educating others on the importance of cleaner communities and reducing illegal dumping sites. “Otherwise, the future won’t see what we see today,” she said.

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12 June 2026 Media Release: GRDM delivers health outreach at a Knysna Informal Settlement

Media Release: GRDM delivers health outreach at a Knysna Informal Settlement

For immediate release
12 June 2026

The Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) conducted a health and hygiene awareness inspection at an informational settlement situated near the Knysna Waste Transfer Station. This was done in commemoration of World Environment Day, celebrated annually on 5 June, combined with Food Safety Day, which took place 7 June.

According to Johan Compion, GRDM Senior Manager: Municipal Health, Waste Management, Air Quality: “This settlement, in existence for roughly 2 years, comprises of nine informal structures, housing 21 people (12 men and 9 women)”.

“Of most concern is that the site in its current form is not connected to basic services such as water and sanitation.”

New settlements, not forming part of Integrated Development Plans, and budgets of municipalities always run the risk of resulting in serious health hazards to the occupants because basic services were not planned by the relevant planning departments of a municipality.

Health and Hygiene Interventions

Focus areas by the EHPs relating to environmental health included the following:

  • The importance of hand hygiene practices
  • Safe food preparation (including clean fires and environmental pollution control)
  • Personal hygiene practices (including safe waste disposal/sanitation)
  • Personal health screening
  • Communicable disease awareness

After completion of the awareness session, residents were given 9 potable water containers and hand soap. Containers hold up to 20 litres of water each.

GRDM EHPs further identified urgent infrastructure gaps that pose environmental and public health risks to residents and the adjacent Knysna Estuary.

GRDM will continue to ensure that there’s ongoing coordination with the Knysna Local Municipality and other stakeholders to provide sanitation, water access, and waste management to prevent contamination and protect community health.

Dwellers standing outside their housing structures

ENDS

05 June 2026 Media Release: GRDM promotes cleanliness and hygienic practices across spaza shops in the Klein Karoo

Media Release: GRDM promotes cleanliness and hygienic practices across spaza shops in the Klein Karoo

For immediate release:
05 June 2026

The Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) conducted a comprehensive Food Safety Day Awareness campaign across the towns of Ladismith and Oudtshoorn on 5 June 2026, to enforce compliance with norms and standards of food handling and raise awareness about foodborne risks.

In observation of World Food Safety Day, the EHPs of the Klein Karoo area, are supporting the theme: Food Safety: From Burden to Solutions – safe food everywhere” by promoting cleanliness and food safety at spaza shops in the Oudtshoorn and Ladismith areas. “Through inspections, education, and engagement with shop owners, EHPs encourage proper hygiene practices, safe food handling and regular cleaning of premises,” said GRMD’s Municipal Health Chief: Klein Karoo, Desmond Paulse.

“This year’s theme aims to inspire action to help prevent and manage foodborne risks to safeguard food security and healthy communities.”

GRDM’s highly competent team of EHPs regularly conducts inspections not only to spaza shops, but also to manufacturers, restaurants and supermarkets, to name a few. This is done to monitor compliance with hygienic and preparation standards. Paulse added that these actions help reduce foodborne health risks, improve compliance with food safety standards, and contribute to healthier communities.

The EHPs placed particular emphasis on cleaning and proper disinfection as these are effective methods to ensure safer food for human consumption. “Clean and hygienic shops play an important role in food safety. A clean shop helps prevent contamination, reduces the spread of harmful bacteria, viruses, and protects customers from a range of foodborne illnesses,” said Paulse.

The EHPs encourage spaza shop owners to adhere to good hygiene practices, such as regular cleaning, proper food storage, and safe handling of food, to ensure that food remains safe and of high quality.

On World Food Safety Day, as GRDM, we recognise that maintaining clean shops remains essential for protecting public health.

ENDS

05 June 2026 Awareness Article: Pest Control: A Key Pillar of Food Safety on World Food Safety Day

Awareness Article: Pest Control: A Key Pillar of Food Safety on World Food Safety Day

For immediate release:
05 June 2026

World Food Safety Day is commemorated annually on 7 June, and in 2026 the global theme, “Safer Food, Better Health,” reinforces the importance of protecting consumers from foodborne risks. One of the most critical, yet often underestimated, components of food safety is effective pest control.

Pests such as rodents, flies, cockroaches, and ants pose a serious threat to food safety across the entire food supply chain, from farms and food processing plants to retail outlets, restaurants, schools, and households. These pests are known carriers of harmful pathogens that contaminate food, equipment, and preparation surfaces, increasing the risk of foodborne diseases.

Disease causing pathogens such as salmonella, E. coli, listeriosis, and Norovirus can result from poor pest management practices. Vulnerable groups, including young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals, are particularly at risk. Preventing pest infestations is therefore not only a hygiene issue, but a public health priority.

In South Africa, food premises are legally required to implement pest control measures. The Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act, 1972 (Act 54 of 1972) mandates that food sold or handled must be safe and free from contamination. In addition, Regulation R.638 of the Health Act, 1977 (General Hygiene Requirements for Food Premises and the Transport of Food) clearly states that food premises must be kept free of pests, and that adequate measures must be in place to prevent their access and harbourage.

Furthermore, the National Health Act, 2003 (Act 61 of 2003) places a responsibility on food business operators to ensure that conditions do not pose a risk to human health. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in fines, closure of premises, or legal action.

Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) emphasise that pest control is a non-negotiable element of food safety.

“Effective pest control is one of the first indicators of a well-managed food premises. Where pests are present, the risk of food contamination and disease transmission increases significantly. Preventing infestations protects not only consumers, but also the reputation and sustainability of food businesses,”

An effective approach to pest control is Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which prioritises prevention through good housekeeping, proper waste disposal, regular cleaning, sealing of entry points, and safe food storage. Where chemical control is necessary, it must be conducted by trained and registered pest control operators using approved products in a manner that does not compromise food safety.

World Food Safety Day serves as a reminder that food safety is everyone’s responsibility. Business owners, food handlers, regulators, and consumers all play a role in preventing contamination and safeguarding public health.

By maintaining strict pest control measures, we protect food from contamination, reduce the spread of disease, and support healthier communities. As we observe World Food Safety Day under the theme “Safer Food, Better Health,” it is clear that effective pest control is not optional — it is essential.

Here’s how you can maintain hygiene when handling food:

 

ENDS

4 June 2026 Media Statement: Public urged to stop from spreading false information about food safety and shops operated by foreign nationals

Media Statement: Public urged to stop from spreading false information about food safety and shops operated by foreign nationals

4 June 2026

The rendering of Municipal Health Services by Environmental Health Practitioners (EHP’s) within the district remains the responsibility of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM). Food control includes the regular inspection of food premises, sampling of foodstuffs offered to the public, and the monitoring of compliance with legislation.

EHPs must ensure that food sold and distributed within the district are fit for human consumption. Food is sold at both formal and informal establishments, such as supermarkets, restaurants, food stalls, spaza shops, street vendors, and other informal food outlets operating within the municipality’s area of jurisdiction. These facilities are routinely monitored and inspected to ensure compliance with applicable regulations.

In recent years, social media has become a significant platform for the sharing of information and opinions, including matters related to food safety. While these platforms can play an important role in raising awareness, they can also contribute to the rapid spread of misinformation and unverified allegations.

The GRDM is therefore making a serious appeal to members of the public to refrain from circulating unverified information, rumours, or allegations regarding the distribution of food and, more specifically, claims that foodstuffs are being deliberately poisoned by foreign nationals operating within our communities. Such statements are not only irresponsible but can also create unnecessary fear that can lead to xenophobia.

EHP’s are actively present in communities and conduct ongoing inspections and investigations throughout the district. Any concerns regarding food safety, food-related illnesses, or suspected non-compliance should be reported directly to the to the Senior Manager: Municipal Health, Solid Waste Management and Air Quality on 082 803 5161or e-mail jcompion@gardenroute.gov.za. Reports received through official channels are investigated thoroughly and objectively in accordance with established procedures.

Over the years, the municipality has received several complaints relating to alleged foreign objects found in packaged food products, including chips, biscuits, and similar food items. Each complaint was subjected to a comprehensive investigation, including inspections of premises and the sampling and examination of the products concerned. To date, no evidence has been found to substantiate claims that foreign objects were intentionally placed in food products at the locations where complaints were reported.

Public cooperation is essential in maintaining community trust, promoting social cohesion, and safeguarding the health and well-being of all residents.

ENDS

25 May 2026 Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Receives Gold Recognition for Municipal Health Excellence

Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Receives Gold Recognition for Municipal Health Excellence

Issued on behalf of the Office of the Executive Mayor, Marais Kruger

25 May 2026

“It is a proud moment to announce that Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Community Services Department has been awarded a Gold Certification of Recognition by the Western Cape Provincial Government (WCG) Department of Health and Wellness,” said Marais Kruger, GRDM Executive Mayor. The award reads: For technological advancement in Environmental Health Norms and Standards during the 2025/26 financial year and achieving 97.8%”.

“The Gold Certification positions GRDM as a provincial leader in Municipal Health innovation and climate-responsive service delivery,” said Mayor Kruger.

According to the GRDM Snr. Manager: Municipal Health, Waste Management and Air Quality, “My Unit achieved a score of 97.8% for Municipal Health initiatives and Climate Change programme”. The Silver Recognition Certificate was awarded to a Metropolitan Municipality – the City of Cape Town, while the Bronze Recognition Certificate was presented to the West Coast District Municipality.

Mayor Kruger also extended his congratulations to the Mayoral Committee Chairperson for Community Services, Cllr Jobieth Hoogbaard; Municipal Manager Monde Stratu; Executive Manager, Nthabeleng Raisa-Mlandu; her Senior Manager, Chiefs and all EHPs – congratulations on your achievement, professionalism, and innovation.”

“The award acknowledged GRDM’s comprehensive community educational material developed as part of its Climate Change Programme, aimed at strengthening public awareness and resilience regarding climate-related health and environmental risks.”

“The municipality’s innovative technology-driven Municipal Health Programme received commendation for enabling EHPs to work smarter and more efficiently in serving communities across the district.”

The Provincial Department also recognised the critical role played by the GRDM EHPs during the George building collapse disaster response. “Municipal Health officials were instrumental in monitoring and ensuring the safe provision of food and water to rescue workers operating on-site during the emergency operation,” concluded Mayor Kruger.

Feature Image: Proudly displaying the Gold Certificate of Recognition Award that GRDM’s Municipal Health Services won, from left to right are the GRDM leaders pictured: Nthabeleng Raisa-Mlandu, Executive Manager: Community Services; Cllr Jobieth Hoogbaard, MMC: Community Services, Marais Kruger, Executive Mayor; Monde Stratu, Municipal Manager; and Johan Compion, Snr. Mgr: Manager: Municipal Health, Waste Management and Air Quality.

ENDS

Media Release: Empowering Food Handlers: Food Safety & Hygiene Training at Meals on Wheels Community Service

Media Release: Empowering Food Handlers: Food Safety & Hygiene Training at Meals on Wheels Community Service

For immediate release
21 May 2026

A Food Safety and Hygiene Training session was recently facilitated for the food handlers of Meals on Wheels Community Services (MOWCS). MOWCS serves some of the most vulnerable members of the community, including the elderly, the frail, and children. These individuals are at a higher risk of complications from foodborne illnesses. “This makes food safety not merely a regulatory requirement, but a direct expression of care and dignity for every person who receives a meal,” said Nonkosi Somwahla, Environmental Health Practitioner (EHPs) at the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM).

As a non-profit organisation involved in the preparation and serving of food, MOWCS is required to hold a valid Certificate of Acceptability (COA) and ensure that all food handlers receive adequate training in Food Safety and Hygiene.

The training was presented by GRDM’s EHPs. The aim was to equip participants with the knowledge and practical skills required to handle, prepare, and serve food safely, while ensuring compliance with South African food safety legislation.

 The session covered key areas of food safety relevant to the day-to-day work of the MOWCS team, including the identification and control of food safety hazards, safe food handling practices, personal hygiene standards emphasise the importance of washing hands, and the maintenance of clean, pest-free premises. Participants engaged actively throughout the session, which was well received by all in attendance.

All attendees who participated in the Food Safety and Hygiene Training received Certificates of Attendance at the end of the session in recognition of their participation and commitment to improving food safety practices.

The training was well received, with positive feedback from Meals on Wheels leadership. The Regional Director of Meals on Wheels, Mr Jeremy Vlotman, shared the following feedback with the EHP, Nonkosi Somwahla: “Thank you for a professional and informative presentation. We have received positive feedback thus far; our next step is to ensure implementation.”

The EHP’s looks forward to supporting Meals on Wheels Community Services through this process, including follow-up visits and ongoing guidance as needed.

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