The Kwanobuhle community has become another area affected by recent alleged food poisoning incidents from snacks bought at local vendors.
Nokhwezi Primary School in Kwanobuhle has seen 29 of its learners rushed to Isolomzi Clinic after complaining about itchy skin. It is alleged that the learners fell ill after consuming snacks bought from local vendors. The learners were attended to by the sister in charge of the clinic, Thandokazi Baba, who coordinated the treatment efforts, ensuring each child received the necessary care.
According to Department of Health spokesperson Mali Mtima, “The Eastern Cape Department of Education has issued a memorandum to schools dated 29 October, cautioning schools following the recent widespread reports of food poisoning and related deaths in the province.”
Mtima added, “We are aware and were able to manage the situation, and it’s back to normalcy. The food was taken by health and environment officials for testing. The learners were later released after being observed for a few hours at the clinic. The matter is being investigated.”
According to a media statement issued by the Department of Education, these incidents have raised significant concern within the department, prompting action to ensure schools adhere to the food safety guidelines outlined in the 2018 National School Nutrition Programme Revised Guidelines.
The statement also added that each district provides direct support to schools to help them follow the National School Nutrition Programme, which focuses on identifying and addressing cases of food contamination and foodborne illnesses.
Department of Education MEC Fundile Gade said, “Not only do these incidents disrupt teaching as they often occur during school hours, but it has also been observed that these items are bought by learners from local shops in the vicinity of the schools and communities.”
He added that the schooling communities should escalate any claims or suspicions of harmful food being sold at vendors through the district and provincial communication channels to curb the issue.
The department urges SGBs, the Senior Management Team (SMT) within schools, and the broader community of stakeholders and parents to stay closely involved with learners, monitor them, and promptly report any suspected cases of food poisoning to officials.
School principals, Education Development Officers (EDOs), and School Governing Bodies (SGBs) are encouraged to engage with nearby vendors to address concerns about the recurring issues of food poisoning and related fatalities.
“Parents and schools should be on high alert to avert this from happening in their school, as this will guarantee that learners are safe. Working together will ensure that learners are safe, and their consumption is monitored,” added Gade.
