ActionSA expresses concern over tender irregularities in R1.2 billion Western Cape Education Department IT contract

19 December 2023  

ActionSA expresses its concern regarding alleged tender irregularities in awarding the R1.2 billion Western Cape Education Department (WCED) IT Contract and the Provincial Government's subsequent conduct in addressing these irregularities.

An independent investigation revealed material irregularities in the adjudication process, prompting the State Information Technology Agency (SITA) to write to the Western Cape Education Department and Western Cape Premier, Alan Winde, directing the withdrawal of the tender.

Unfortunately, mirroring ActionSA's past experiences with the Western Cape Government, SITA's correspondence was met with silence from WCED and mere acknowledgement from the Premier. We note that there are now reports of SITA considering last resort court action to halt the contract.

We are troubled by the Provincial Government's reported lackadaisical and indifferent response to the flagged irregularities and the ensuing recommendations. Instead of withdrawing the contract, the government appears to be forging ahead, showing no clear commitment to address the highlighted concerns.

We believe that the conduct of the Provincial Government is not only contemptuous but also detrimental to safeguarding taxpayer funds. The apparent lack of urgency in confronting alleged irregularities poses a significant risk to the responsible use of public resources.

ActionSA believes that the independent investigation report presents sufficient cause to suspend the awarding of the tender and urges the Western Cape Government, together with SITA, to guarantee strict adherence to supply chain regulations in the ensuing process.

Issued by Michelle Wasserman, ActionSA Western Cape Provincial Chairperson, 19 December 2023