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The Citizen
30-07-2025
- Politics
- The Citizen
Shock allegations against Municipal Manager by DA over alleged R1 billion tenders for kickbacks
Shock allegations against Municipal Manager by DA over alleged R1 billion tenders for kickbacks The Municipal Public Accounts Committee (MPAC) has been described as 'a toothless dog' by councillors. Well, not anymore, as evidenced by the shocking announcement by the DA that Municipal Manager Mandla Mnguni will be investigated over his involvement in an alleged tenders for kickbacks scheme, worth a staggering R1b. Through its MPAC Chairperson Hennie Niemann, the DA in Steve Tshwete has today launched an investigation into allegations of tender fraud in electrification projects. According to Niemann, a whistleblower reached out to MPAC last week to investigate, and if necessary, open a case of fraud against Mnguni, for allegedly awarding tenders for electrification projects to known associates. It is alleged that Mnguni used his position to appoint two companies, with the same owner, to carry out electrification projects worth R1b across the 2023/24-2025/26 financial years. The whistleblower alleges that Mnguni ignored recommendations of the bid adjudication committee, which warned him about possible perceived collusion. Mnguni also allegedly defied two legal opinions, binding him to abide by the bid adjudication committee's recommendations. In addition, the whistleblower alleges that Mnguni received alleged kickbacks in the form of a house in Aerorand, in which he resides, as well a farm in Stoffberg and an emergency helicopter for the ambulance company he allegedly owns. Taking these allegations seriously, the DA has launched an investigation through its MPAC chairperson by requesting the necessary bid evaluation reports and the adjudication committee recommendations that date back to 2023. Niemann said he'll ensure that the investigation request is fairly, and transparently, handled. Niemann added, 'We will prioritise this investigation and make sure that we provide a detailed report within the next 21 days.' Phone calls to Mnguni for comment went unanswered. He also did not respond to WhatsApp requests for comment before publication.
The Citizen
15-06-2025
- Business
- The Citizen
Umdoni aims to grow economy
Investors, traditional leaders, municipal leaders and business folk gathered at the Cutty Sark Hotel in Scottburgh for the 2025 Umdoni Investment Conference last week. This two-day event was aimed at forging and maintaining partnerships in order to work together towards building a sustainable economy for Umdoni through major investments. Umdoni Local Municipality hopes to bring more investments in tourism, manufacturing, agriculture, commercial, retail, resort, high middle income residential and education. Mayor Mbali Cele-Luthuli said that the municipality has identified a need for the Umdoni economy to grow in order to fight against the triple challenges government is facing – unemployment, poverty and inequality. 'The municipality is of the view that this conference will serve as an initial step to engage investors and showcase the potential Umdoni possesses as an investment worthy area,' she said. 'Our vision is to attain investments and further enhance the urban environment economy and unleash the economic potential of the rural hinterland of Umdoni.' The Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Sihle Zikalala, also attended. He mentioned government's determination to improve economic and social infrastructure such as roads, bridges, dams and fibre networks to support Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMME's) and industrialisation. 'The department is ready to partner with municipalities like Umdoni that are clear in their vision and aligned with national priorities. Infrastructure is not just about bricks and mortar; it's about jobs, inclusion, and dignity,' he said. Zikalala suggested that investment projects brought by the private sector will complement the municipality's vision of transforming Umdoni into the 'Jewel of the South Coast' by 2030. He also mentioned that plans are on track for the construction of a small craft harbour in Ray Nkonyeni District Municipality. The development, which will include a boat launching site, fisheries and related facilities, is expected to cost close to R1b and will create thousands of work opportunities. He said the department is still investigating the site of a second small harbour development in KZN. HAVE YOUR SAY Like the South Coast Herald's Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
