Impendulo Primary School in Mamelodi East Temporarily Closes Kitchen After Allegations of Learner Food Poisoning - City Inspectors Investigate

Impendulo Primary School in Mamelodi East Temporarily Closes Kitchen After Allegations of Learner Food Poisoning - City Inspectors Investigate

Mamelodi East, Pretoria – 29 January 2026

Impendulo Primary School (Extension 22, Mamelodi East) has issued an urgent notice to parents confirming the temporary closure of its kitchen following allegations of food poisoning among learners.

In a letter dated 29 January 2026 (signed by Principal Dr NL Makofane, SGB Chairperson Mr BC Lubisi, and SGB Secretary Ms NL Fakude), the school states: "The kitchen will be temporarily closed as from 29 January 2026 until further notice due to the allegations of food poisoning in the learner’s food. The City of Tshwane inspectorate is busy with the inspection."

Parents are urged to provide children with lunchboxes in the meantime, with updates promised once the investigation concludes. 

The notice follows reports of an incident happened on 28 January 2026, where some learners allegedly fell ill after consuming school-provided food. Mamelodi News shared a video showing parents gathering outside the school in concern, with claims of "poison in a school pot" and calls to "check your kids." 

These allegations have sparked widespread worry amid South Africa's ongoing challenges with food safety in schools, often linked to snacks from vendors, spaza shops, or contaminated supplies rather than official nutrition programs.

We urge swift, transparent investigation and support for affected children. Child health and safety in schools must remain a priority, parents, stay vigilant.