By Gabriel Manyati
Controversial anti-immigration campaigner Nkosikhona Ndabandaba, popularly known as Phakel’umthakathi, (pictured) has issued a firm ultimatum to foreign nationals operating spaza shops across South Africa, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal. He demands they leave the informal retail sector by 31 July to allow local South Africans to reclaim these businesses.
Phakel’umthakathi, who has led large marches against undocumented migrants, argues that foreign-owned spaza shops have hijacked a vital part of the township economy. In meetings with traditional leaders in Zululand and other stakeholders, he has stressed the need for peaceful compliance while warning of sustained action if ignored.
“The spaza shop industry in South Africa is estimated to be valued at R200 billion each year and some estimates are even much higher up to R900 billion per year,” Phakel’umthakathi stated in a public address. “So people cannot tell us we are fighting illegal foreigners over crumbs.”
He contrasts the practices of local operators with those of some foreign traders. South African owners previously operated within the law, sourcing stock from wholesalers and contributing to community development such as funding education. Foreign operators, he claims, engage in illicit activities including the sale of counterfeit goods, expired products, and smuggled cigarettes that evade taxes and harm public health.
“We are taking back our spaza shop industry, which is more valuable than the biggest retail company in South Africa,” he added. Phakel’umthakathi has also highlighted incidents of violence, such as the kidnapping of South African competitors and murders linked to competition in the sector.
His campaign forms part of broader “Mabahambe” (they must go) protests that gained momentum in June and July 2026. In areas like Sharpeville, communities have reportedly succeeded in transferring spaza shops back to local hands, resulting in sustainable operations. Similar efforts continue in places such as Garankuwa and Soweto, where inspections and closures have occurred.
Supporters view the move as essential for addressing high unemployment and rebuilding local value chains in townships. Critics, however, raise concerns about potential disruptions to communities that rely on these shops for convenient access to goods, credit, and affordable prices. Some foreign nationals hold legal status, but Phakel’umthakathi and allies question the validity of many permits and call for stricter enforcement of business regulations, including zoning and trading licences.
Government bodies have reiterated rules requiring proper documentation and warned against fronting, where locals allegedly assist undocumented foreigners in operating businesses. Phakel’umthakathi says he plans to intensify compliance checks and engagements with community structures to ensure the transition benefits South Africans.
As the 31 July deadline approaches, tension simmers in affected townships. The activist maintains his movement seeks lawful, orderly change rather than chaos.
“We as the men of this country cannot and will not allow that to happen, ever,” he declared, referring to the alleged takeover of the spaza sector.
The outcome could reshape informal trade in South Africa, testing the balance between community empowerment and economic stability.
