JOHANNESBURG – Some spaza shop owners in Soweto are calling on the government to extend the deadline for spaza shop registration.

This comes as President Cyril Ramaphosa’s 21-day registration period is set to expire at the end of proceedings on Tuesday.

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In November, Ramaphosa ordered all spaza shops to register with their local municipal offices as part of efforts to regulate the industry.

Despite the limited time remaining, some spaza traders queuing at the Jabulani Civic Center are yet to register their businesses.

Hundreds of Spaza shop owners are feeling the intense heat of Soweto and are increasingly doubtful about being able to register their shops today.

The long lines at the Jabulani Civic Center are moving slowly, with some people queuing since the office opened.

Siyabonga Mazibuko, owner of a spaza shop in Tshiawelo, Soweto, believes it is impossible for everyone to be treated before 5 p.m.

“I don’t think they will register all of us because there is a lot of information needed. They need construction plans and many other documents. The 21 day period is certainly not sufficient.

Those whose businesses are not registered by the end of the day risk having their spaza shops closed permanently.