The use of violence against foreign nationals who own businesses in the Inanda, Ntuzuma, KwaMashu (INK) has been condemned by stakeholders during a meeting held in KwaMashu yesterday, 18 December 2014, to discuss tensions in the area.
The meeting follows the reported incidents of attacks directed at foreign nationals who run spaza shops and general dealers in the INK area. Local business people have complained that they have lost their livelihood due to foreigners opening up shops closer to their trading areas and selling goods at lower prices.
However, local business owners have distanced themselves from the recent incident where a tuck shop was bombed in the area.
Yesterday’s meeting was attended by representatives of local businesses, South African Police Services (SAPS), KwaZulu-Natal Department of Community Safety and Liaison as well as the Office of the Mayor and other Municipal Departments.
The meeting resolved the following:
- Mayor Cllr James Nxumalo will convene an urgent meeting with local councillors and other stakeholders to discuss the way forward.
- Police and other government departments will continue with operations to ensure that all affected people have proper documentation and permits.
- Municipal bylaws relating to business licences and business zoning will be enforced without prejudice.
- Engagements will be held with affected foreign nationals regarding the situation.
- Local traders will organise themselves into proper structures so that they can be developed to take advantage of other available opportunities.
A report back will be held on 06 January 2015.
