Spaza shops in Soweto have resumed operations following anti-migrant protests, with owners returning to their businesses after initially closing to prevent looting.

Shopkeepers like Selamu Masebo, an Ethiopian national, describe how they temporarily secured their stores but have since reopened to serve the local community.The informal trade plays a crucial role in daily life, with residents accessing essentials like bread, milk, and eggs directly from these shops.Landlords and tenants report a mutually beneficial relationship, with shop owners providing credit to customers who struggle with cash flow.Despite lacking official municipal permits, the spaza shops remain vital for many households, offering both goods and financial support.The situation highlights the resilience of informal economies in South Africa, where such businesses often fill gaps left by formal retail systems.

While some residents acknowledge the legal uncertainties surrounding these operations, the practical benefits for the community outweigh concerns about compliance.