Online Reporter
Vusumuzi Dube Deputy Radar Editor
THE aroma of roasting meat and crackling firewood, a hallmark of Bulawayo’s popular braai culture, could soon become a thing of the past after the City Council endorsed a sweeping ban on firewood-fuelled braais at commercial food outlets.
For scores of braai spot operators across the city, the proposed regulations signal not only the end of a long-standing tradition but also the beginning of a costly transition that could threaten the survival of some small businesses already battling economic headwinds.
Most braai spots in Bulawayo rely heavily on open firewood grills, prized by customers for the distinct smoky flavour associated with township braais.
However, under the policy, operators will now be required to invest in gas, charcoal or electric grilling equipment while upgrading infrastructure to meet strict health and safety standards set by the local authority.
For many operators, the cost of replacing braai stands, installing compliant cooking facilities and meeting council registration requirements could run into thousands of dollars, raising fears that smaller informal operators may be forced out of business.
Yet health experts say the move could bring significant public health benefits.
Studies have shown that burning firewood releases harmful pollutants such as fine particulate matter, nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide, all of which are linked to respiratory illnesses including asthma, bronchitis and other chronic lung conditions.
Environmentalists have also raised concerns over the contribution of firewood use to deforestation and air pollution in densely populated urban areas.
According to the new braai policy, fire accelerants are also set to be banned.
The local authority says the proposed regulations are aimed at protecting public health, improving food safety standards and reducing environmental and fire hazards associated with the growing number of braaiing activities across the city.
“The City of Bulawayo, through the Health Services Department, is mandated to ensure that food articles are wholesome and free from disease and that adequate measures are taken to guard against any infection or contamination of such food articles. This is achieved through crafting and enforcing regulations that work together to protect public health.
“The proliferation of braaiing activities has brought about a form of food handling and preparation that has to be guided and regulated to protect the health of the residents and visitors of the city. The City of Bulawayo recognises its legal mandate to safeguard the general public, property and the environment by regulating the braai activities,” reads part of the policy.
The policy, which was prepared by the Health Services Department, also states that all braai operators will be required to obtain council approvals, including town planning clearance, approved building plans, fire clearance and occupation certificates before commencing operations.
“A certificate of registration shall be issued for the braai activity in addition to other certificates of registration and or licences that apply to their already existing operations,” reads part of the policy document.
The city said the proliferation of braaiing activities had created a need for tighter regulation to guard against food contamination, disease outbreaks and unsafe operating environments.
The policy will apply to restaurants, takeaways, sports clubs, nature reserves, beer halls, social clubs and other designated recreational facilities that prepare food for the public.
Council has proposed minimum infrastructure requirements for braai areas, including a minimum braai space of 20 square metres and a sitting area of at least 10 square metres.
Braai areas would also be required to have washable floors and walls, stainless steel working tables, cutting boards, running water, hand-washing facilities and separate toilets for staff and patrons.
In addition, braai stands or fireplaces would have to be positioned at least 2,4 metres from any wall or boundary.
Operators would also be prohibited from disposing of ashes in refuse bins and would instead be required to transport the ashes to landfill sites at their own cost.
Under the proposed fire safety regulations, combustible materials would not be allowed within three metres of braai stands, while operators would be required to ensure fires are completely extinguished after use.
“The sources of fuel to be used are gas, electrical grill and charcoal for braai stands. Use of firewood is prohibited. If flammable gas such as liquified petroleum gas is used for braaiing, handle the equipment with great care and according to the supplier’s or manufacturer’s instructions.
“The operation should provide firefighting equipment as recommended by the Chief Fire Officer and further the use of fire accelerants for lighting brazier grills is prohibited,” reads the policy.
The local authority also revealed that, according to the new policy, a certificate of registration shall be issued for the braai activity in addition to other certificates of registration and or licences that apply to their already existing operations.
The city said the policy was crafted in line with the Public Health Act, the Bulawayo (Registration of Premises) By-laws and other relevant regulations.
