The Unraveling of a PPE Tender Scandal in the Matzikama Local Municipality - Cape Town Today
Customize Consent Preferences

We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.

The cookies that are categorized as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ... 

Always Active

Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.

No cookies to display.

Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.

No cookies to display.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

No cookies to display.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

No cookies to display.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customized advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyze the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.

No cookies to display.

The Unraveling of a PPE Tender Scandal in the Matzikama Local Municipality

1 min read
p p

In a landmark decision, Judge Johannes Daffue of the Special Tribunal has ruled that three former Western Cape municipal officials must jointly pay back R400,027.50 for their involvement in an irregular Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) tender. This case highlights the devastating impact of corruption and maladministration in public procurement during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Collusion to Bypass Proper Supply Chain Management Processes

Aldrich Hendricks, Isak Edward Jenner, and Jafta Booysen colluded with Nicolaas Jacobus Klazen, the operator of Duneco CC, to bypass proper supply chain management processes and award a PPE tender to the company. The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) conducted a thorough investigation, revealing a complex web of deceit and manipulation within the Matzikama Local Municipality.

Breach of Trust and Transparency

The story began in March 2020 when Lionel Phillips, the acting Municipal Manager at the time, formed a Covid-19 team to procure PPE. After Hendricks succeeded Phillips as Acting Municipal Manager on April 1, 2020, he disbanded the Covid-19 team and appointed Jenner as the Covid-19 Coordinating Officer.

It was during this period that Hendricks and Klazen had a telephonic conversation regarding the supply of PPE to the municipality. Later, Klazen deposited money into the bank account of Hendricks’ wife, without disclosing their relationship. This breach of trust and transparency led to the unraveling of their scheme.

Unprecedented Ruling

On June 23, 2023, the Special Tribunal accepted the SIU’s findings and declared the decision made by Hendricks in April 2020 as invalid and irregular. The ruling ordered Hendricks, Jenner, and Booysen to pay back the R400,027.50 sum to the municipality with interest from April 22, 2020. Curiously, both Hendricks and Booysen have since been employed as municipal managers within the Western Cape, while Jenner served as a former MEC of Cultural Affairs, Sport, and Recreation.

In addition to the repayment, the tribunal ordered Duneco and the three municipal officials to cover the costs of the SIU’s review application. This decision aligns with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Proclamation No. R. 23 of 2020, which authorized the SIU to investigate allegations of corruption, malpractice, and irregularities during the Covid-19 state of disaster.

Referral to National Prosecuting Authority

Pursuant to the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU referred their findings to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action. Consequently, in May 2022, the Hawks arrested the municipal officials alongside Klazen, charging them with fraud for their involvement in the PPE tender scandal. All four were later released on R5,000 bail each, with their case scheduled for the Specialized Commercial Crimes Court in Bellville in July 2023.

The Consequences of Corrupt Actions

This PPE tender scandal in the Matzikama Local Municipality reveals the unscrupulous actions of those seeking personal gain amidst a global crisis. It is a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and cooperation between investigating agencies and the judiciary to hold individuals accountable for their corrupt actions. The consequences of such behavior are far-reaching, affecting not only public trust in institutions but also the efficient allocation of scarce resources during times of need.

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.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Previous Story

The 8th Summit of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU): Navigating Global Shocks and Deepening Integration

Next Story

Minister Barbara Creecy Gives Speech on Sustainable Development at the 8th Annual Green Youth Indaba

Latest from Blog

The Rise of Vaping Among South African Teenagers

Vaping is quickly becoming a popular habit among South African teenagers, drawn by sweet fruity flavors, flashy packaging, and the buzz on social media. Many teens vape to fit in with friends, feel cool and rebellious, or to escape stress and anxiety. However, what seems like harmless fun can quickly turn into addiction, affecting their health and wellbeing. Despite the risks, vaping is often misunderstood, making it harder for families and schools to stop this growing trend. It’s a serious challenge that needs everyone—parents, teachers, and leaders—to work together to protect young people’s futures.

South African Agriculture and the Changing Winds of Trade

Since 2000, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) has helped South African farmers sell fruits like avocados, wine, and citrus to the United States without paying extra taxes. This chance boosted farming communities, especially small farmers and women, by opening up new markets and encouraging growth. But recent U.S. tariffs threaten these gains, making it harder for farmers to compete and putting many livelihoods at risk. Still, South African farmers remain strong and hopeful, working hard to face these new challenges and keep their communities alive.

Trapped Abroad: Ashley Oosthuizen’s Journey Through Thailand’s Legal Labyrinth

Ashley Oosthuizen, a young South African woman, went to Thailand chasing her dreams but ended up trapped in a nightmare. After unknowingly signing for a package with illegal drugs, she was arrested and sentenced to over 13 years in prison, despite being innocent. Her mother moved to Thailand to fight for her, sharing Ashley’s story with the world and gaining support. Even when the real criminal confessed, the Thai courts kept Ashley behind bars. Her story is a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change and the risks travelers face in foreign countries.

Shadows Along the Hennops: Three SAPS Officers Vanish and a River Gives Up Its Secrets

In April 2025, three South African police officers disappeared during a trip and were later found dead near the Hennops River, along with two others. Their white car vanished into the river’s dark, swirling waters, hiding clues and sparking a deep mystery. Families and the public mourned, demanding answers amid fears of foul play. The quiet river, once peaceful, now holds heavy secrets and reminds the nation of the dangers police face and the urgent need for justice.

Cape Town’s Boatbuilding: Crafting a Legacy on the Waterfront

Cape Town’s boatbuilding industry is a shining example of skill and tradition mixed with new technology. It creates beautiful, strong boats that are loved worldwide and supports thousands of jobs in the city. But now, new tariffs on exports, especially to the US, threaten this important work and the people who depend on it. Despite these challenges, boatbuilders, city leaders, and innovators are coming together to protect this proud craft. Their passion and teamwork fuel hope that Cape Town’s boatbuilding legacy will sail on strong into the future.