Dear Portfolio Committee on Small Business Development,
I am writing this message on behalf of concerned Spaza Shop owners within Emfuleni Municipality in Sedibeng district.

We are extremely disappointed and frustrated by the recent experience regarding the community outreach programme for Spaza Shop support fund,which was scheduled to take place on the 03 June 2025 from 09H00 to 14H00 as Saul Tsotetsi community hall,SEBOKENG.

Despite the event being advertised on official departmental platforms and websites,no officials or representatives arrived at the venue.Many of us had arrived as early as 08h00 and waited until 13h00 with no communication or explanation.This lack of coordinaton has caused great concern and loss of confidence in the department of small business development and related departments.

We feel neglected.Since registering our Spaza Shops in 2024,we have only received acknowledgement letters.There has been no further communication,no feedback on our applications.
We ask :
Why has Emfuleni been excluded from meaning engagement in this spaza shop support fund roadshow while other ares have received visits?

.What steps are being taken to ensure that all registered spaza shop owners are given fair opportunity to benefit?