Minister Sihle Zikalala Strives for Transparency in Procurement Practices on State Properties Occupied by Public Representatives

by
1 min read
transparency procurement

Minister Sihle Zikalala of Public Works and Infrastructure has launched an investigation to ensure transparency and tackle questionable procurement practices related to the maintenance of government properties. This decision came in response to recent revelations of exorbitant costs for maintenance and refurbishments on various government properties in Cape Town and Pretoria.

Concerns Over Extravagant Expenditure

The expenses include a kitchen refurbishment worth R1.4 million, curtains procured for R54,000, and fumigation services costing R240,000. Such extravagant expenditure has raised concerns over the possible misuse of public funds and potential involvement of corruption.

Prudent Spending and Leading by Example

Minister Zikalala aims to ensure that public funds are spent prudently, and wasteful or excessive spending is not tolerated. In line with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s directive, Zikalala stressed the importance of leading by example and setting the right tone in spending public money.

Investigation and Procurement Legislative Regime

The investigation will scrutinize pricing practices, procurement related to maintenance, and conduct comparisons to determine whether these expenses are justifiable. Minister Zikalala emphasized that the procurement legislative regime is clear in excluding elected representatives from procurement matters, thus maintaining their integrity.

Clean-up and Prudent Spending

Minister Zikalala believes that it is time to clean up the maintenance programme on government properties to eliminate any allegations or perceptions of wrongdoing. To address the issue of providing resources and effective tools of trade to those directed by citizens, he insists that this must be done in a more prudent manner with justifiable costs.

New Proposal and Unveiling

To protect the integrity of the government and address these issues, the Minister is working on a new proposal to be presented to various decision-making bodies within the government. Some of these interventions are scheduled to be unveiled on May 23, 2023, during the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure’s budget vote presentation.

No Political Principal Involved

Minister Zikalala has assured the public that no political principal is involved in the excessive finishes, and the government abhors excessive conduct with taxpayers’ money, particularly during times when resources are being deployed to core services.

Building Trust and Ensuring Responsible Use of Public Funds

The investigation’s findings will be reported to President Ramaphosa, demonstrating the Department’s commitment to rooting out questionable procurement practices and ensuring transparency in the maintenance of government properties. This initiative by Minister Zikalala is a crucial step toward building trust and ensuring responsible use of public funds in the maintenance of state assets.

Tags:

You might be interested in

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

road safety tragedy
Previous Story

Tragedy Strikes Eastern Cape: Eleven Perish in Fatal Accident

prasa ministry of transport
Next Story

Ministry of Transport Announces Removal of PRASA Chairperson

Latest from Blog

racism slavery

A Disturbing Incident: Recollection of Slavery in a High School Incident

Students at a Cape Town high school were involved in a disturbing mock auction that resembled scenes from slavery. The incident, filmed and circulated on social media, triggered investigations by school officials and widespread indignation. A spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department confirmed that the students’ actions were not in line with the values and principles of the department or the school. The incident highlights the need for ongoing dialogues about racial equality, mutual respect, and education on the lasting effects of historical crimes such as slavery.

ireland vfs global

The Evolving Global Travel Landscape: A New Chapter for South African and Botswana Nationals

South African and Botswana nationals now need to obtain a visa before travelling to Ireland, following the Irish Department of Justice’s appointment of VFS Global as its official partner for travellers from these two countries. The decision was made in response to a surge in International Protection applications from South African and Botswana nationals, and is aimed at aligning Ireland more closely with the Schengen Area. The move is part of a broader trend of countries modifying their immigration policies to balance security considerations, economic requirements, and aspirations to maintain an opendoor policy.

electric fence south africa

“Spearheading Safety: South Africa’s Revised Electric Fence Regulations”

South Africa’s Bureau of Standards has updated regulations for electric fences, with new rules requiring the use of premiumgrade materials, regular inspection schedules and enhanced testing methods after installation. The SANS 10222–3: 2023 Edition 5.1 requirements also include revised standards for warning sign placement and joint installation. Failure to comply with the standards can result in the denial of insurance claims, while consumers can request the Electric Fence System Installer number from installers and report improper conduct to the Department of Labour.

homelessness cape town

The Unfolding Homelessness Crisis in Cape Town’s Central Business District

The homelessness crisis in Cape Town’s CBD is becoming increasingly urgent, with hundreds of homeless individuals facing eviction. The city’s proposed solution, the Safe Spaces Initiative, provides shelter, meals, and vocational training to homeless individuals and is funded by the city. While some support the initiative as a way to preserve the dignity of the destitute, others argue for more comprehensive solutions, such as repurposing vacant buildings for permanent housing and addressing health and employment issues. The decision of how to tackle this issue has farreaching implications, making it a critical moment for the city.

south africa democracy

Examining the Path of Democracy: South Africa’s Transformation Over Thirty Years

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile emphasized the need for scientific and evidencesupported strategies to handle socioeconomic complexities, identified key issues integral to the nation’s developmental dialogue, including countering the impacts of climate change, capitalizing on the advantages of the African Continental Free Trade Area, and supporting peace initiatives on the continent. The conference reflected on the struggles, achievements, and aspirations of a nation striving to uphold principles of justice, equality, and social transformation.