Spaza shops, informal convenience stores operating in South Africa's townships and rural areas, have until tomorrow to re-register their businesses or face closure.

President Cyril Ramaphosa issued the 21-day deadline following public outrage over the deaths of more than 20 children who consumed snacks purchased from these shops and local vendors.

Spaza shops play a vital role in providing affordable goods to low-income communities but often operate outside formal regulatory frameworks.

Some shop owners have called for an extension of the deadline.

To discuss this issue and the evolving township economy, Dr. Thami Mazwai, former journalist, anti-apartheid activist, and author, who advocates for youth leadership in driving the township economy forward.