Orange Farm Learner Dies After Eating Spaza Shop Snacks

The Gauteng Department of Education has confirmed the tragic passing of a Grade 10 learner from Orange Farm Secondary School, reportedly after consuming snacks purchased from a local spaza shop.

The incident has sparked renewed calls for vigilance over food safety from unregulated vendors.

According to the department, the learner fell ill on Saturday, June 28, shortly after allegedly eating snacks bought near her home. She was rushed to a nearby clinic but was unfortunately declared dead. The school was formally informed of the incident on Monday, 1 July 2025.

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has expressed deep condolences to the family and the school community.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, the school community, and all those affected by this tragic incident,” said Chiloane.

The department is expected to provide support to the affected family and school, while investigations into the cause of the incident continue.

In the wake of the learner’s death, MEC Chiloane is calling on parents, learners, and communities to exercise caution when purchasing food items—especially from unregulated spaza shops and street vendors.

“It is unfortunate that we are still experiencing tragic outcomes from the consumption of unauthorised or unverified food items,” said Chiloane. “We urge communities to be more cautious, and protect our children from avoidable harm, especially from unauthorised spaza shops.”