Investigation sought as service providers allege tender rigging in school feeding scheme

THE National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) tender process in KwaZulu-Natal has come under intense scrutiny, with the service providers' association calling for its immediate suspension.

- SIPHESIHLE BUTHELEZI [e-mail]

The NSNP Association has made allegations that the tender has been rigged to benefit allies of KZN Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka. The Association has said it is consulting its legal team and will be reporting the matter to the Public Protector.

Asked about the allegations yesterday, KZN Department of Education, spokesperson Muzi Mahlambi said the department had only published the "intention to award", which is one of the stages required in terms of the bidding process.

"Those who have issues may raise them following the procedure as stipulated in the tender documents," Mahlambi said.

"We are noting the issues as they are raised, and the relevant structures will deal with them accordingly," he said.