Community Concerns - Collaborative (Example - Spaza Shops Foods)

Spaza shops have become almost a must, and only because of its convenience, comparing the distance from our regular food stores.

Well, these shops are owned by foreign nationals and can't really tell if they are regulated by the South African Bureau of Standards. This is a responsibility one would think is managed by Government (Ward Councillor's)

The community, however, often wonders if it save to buy from these Spaza shops given the constant incidents of outdated food items they buy from them.

This is a good example of how the community wish to collectively discuss this concern and to make sure, given the convenience of Spaza Shops.

What needs to be discussed, with who and how?

• Visible Approved Certificate after Health Inspector's visit
• Ward Councillor to become accountable for such
• Community to feel rest assured of the above

We have to be honest with ourselves and to ask the question, how effectively this can be done. We also need to consider information security, continuation of practice, a reference guide and external but related sources.

The eComNet Collaboration & Social platform provide essential tools that include a discussion board, notification mechanism, all in one community hub. Furthermore, can information be shared across communities.

The above is almost impossible if we have a divided community. Any local community has what we call concerned members, including leadership. For those who does not share the same sentiment are called spectators, but with a great interest, since they form part of the community at large.