Service providers in KwaZulu-Natal are calling on Premier Thami Ntuli to act swiftly against Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka . There are claims that Hlomuka manipulated the bidding process for the school nutrition programme, with an aim to benefit a company linked to his relatives.
It is alleged that several companies associated with prominent political figures were also awarded the nutrition tender.
The National School Nutrition Programme was launched in 1994. It was aimed at improving childrens learning abilities by alleviating hunger and supporting small businesses and local womens cooperatives. However, service providers are contesting the tender awarding process.
Chairperson of the Service Providers Association Lindani Matiwane says, "People have started to be called to come in to do their appeals. We have accepted the opportunity to appeal and have been given issues and clarity on how this system of being awarded works."
Investigations underway
