Messages and videos have been distributed on social media accusing the department of irregularities. Spokesperson Boitshoko Moremi has denied dismissed the claims, saying the tender process was conducted lawfully and transparently.

“The food service management tender is advertised and awarded according to clusters. These awards are in line with the different clusters.”

Cluster A (Bid NWDOH 04/23) was awarded in August last year and initially faced legal challenges, he said. But the litigation was withdrawn, allowing the service provider to proceed with the implementation of the award. Meanwhile, Cluster B (Bid NWDOH 2023), which closed on 29 November, is still under evaluation.

Corruption in North West has recently come under scrutiny as the province is plagued by incidents involving municipal officials, leading to poor service delivery.

Provincial Department of Education officials were exposed for falsifying their academic credentials. Meanwhile, senior managers from municipalities such as Ditsobotla and Bojanala have faced legal action for alleged corruption and financial mismanagement, contributing to the continued collapse of service delivery in the region.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh