A five-year-old boy from Diepkloof, Soweto, has died after allegedly eating snacks purchased from a foreign-owned spaza shop two days before his graduation.
Siyabonga Mnisi, who was set to graduate on Friday, passed away on Wednesday, just two days before the ceremony.
Three of his friends, who also ate the snacks, are being treated in hospital, with one of them in critical condition in ICU. The boys, all reportedly from the same yard, started vomiting and experiencing severe diarrhoea after consuming the snacks while playing together.
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Heartbroken Father Speaks Out As 5 Year Old Soweto Boy Died From Spaza Shop Snacks Two Days Before Graduation
Siyabonga’s father, Samuel, said he received a devastating call while on his way home from work, informing him that his son was unwell and being rushed to Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital. Shortly afterwards, another call confirmed his worst fear.
“It was bad when I got to the hospital. My son was dead. I have nothing to say. I can’t believe what happened. I was expecting to see him on Friday during his graduation. I had bought everything and paid for everything and now he’s no more,” Samuel told Daily Sun.
5 Year Old Boy From Soweto Died From Spaza Shop Snacks Two Days Before Graduation [Image: Action SA]Samuel, who does not live with his son, expressed anger and disbelief, citing previous cases of alleged food poisoning involving children.
“Why is it that they’re targeting kids and not us the elderly?” he questioned.
Shut Downs Amid Investigations
Authorities have closed the shop where the children reportedly purchased the snacks. Expired food was discovered on the premises and confiscated by police. Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the food poisoning.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the Soweto community, with parents demanding accountability and stricter regulations on informal shops.
Siyabonga’s tragic death has cast a shadow over what should have been a joyous celebration of his young life. For his father, the loss is immeasurable.
“I can’t believe what happened,” Samuel said, his voice heavy with grief.
No arrests have been made, and police continue to investigate the source of the contaminated snacks.