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More Deaths? Concerns Grow After Learner’s Tragic Passing in Soweto
The tragic death of an eight-year-old Grade 2 learner from Thabisile Primary School in Soweto has raised alarms. The child reportedly ate biscuits from a local spaza shop and became ill. She passed away on Friday at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital after her condition worsened over two days.
Authorities are still investigating the cause of her death. The Gauteng Department of Education has sent support teams to help the family, learners, and staff at the school.
Another Death Raises Fears
This incident follows the death of a five-year-old Grade R learner earlier in November. The child, who also experienced severe symptoms after eating snacks, passed away on November 20.
Three other children—two girls in Grade R and Grade 1, and a Grade 4 boy—were hospitalized with similar symptoms. They had eaten snacks and played together. While three children recovered, the Grade R learner tragically passed away.
Investigations Underway
Authorities are investigating both incidents. Police have opened inquest dockets to determine whether the snacks were contaminated. These incidents have raised fears about the safety of food sold at spaza shops near schools.
MEC Matome Chiloane has expressed his deep sorrow over the deaths and assured the public that authorities are closely monitoring the situation.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends, and school communities affected by these tragedies,” he said.
Parents Urged to Be Careful
After these deaths, authorities have urged parents to be cautious about what their children eat. Food safety near schools is now under investigation.
The Gauteng Department of Education continues to support the affected communities with counselling services.
A Call for Vigilance
These deaths raise serious concerns about the safety of food around schools. Investigations are ongoing, and the public is waiting for updates. Parents and schools must be vigilant to ensure that nothing like this happens again.
