KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli. Image Credit: XSAfmRadio
(The Post News) – KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli continues to review the controversy surrounding the R2.4-billion school feeding contract, which has faced allegations of favouritism and control by politicians, their relatives, and close allies.
As a result, the contract, designed to supply meals to learners across the province, has come under intense scrutiny amid claims that political influence shaped the award process. The programme plays a vital role in ensuring that learners from disadvantaged communities receive nutritious meals, making the stakes particularly high.
In response, Ntuli reassured the public nearly two months after the initial uproar that prompted him to request a report from his MEC for Education, Sipho Hlomuka. Hlomuka became a focus of concern after reports revealed that he had a financial interest in a company he had transferred to his mother, which allegedly benefited from the contract.
Ntuli’s request for a report aimed to clarify the situation and ensure accountability before any further decisions regarding the contract.
Meanwhile, provincial government spokesperson Bongani Gina said that Ntuli would announce his decision at the appropriate time. “The premier is still reviewing the KZN school feeding contract. In due time, Ntuli will share his way forward with the public,” Gina stated, emphasizing that the decision would follow careful consideration and due process.
Service Providers Maintain Objections Amid Appeals
At the same time, the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) Service Providers Association continues to oppose the tender award. The association has reiterated its objections while appeals lodged with the provincial Department of Finance under MEC Francois Rodgers remain unresolved. Their consistent stance underscores the ongoing tension between the government and service providers regarding procurement transparency.
The NSNP Service Providers Association formally reconfirms its opposition to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education’s tender processes ZNB0071E/2024/2025 and ZNB1826E/2024/2025.
Specifically, the association points to multiple significant irregularities and inconsistencies during the bidding process, which it argues violate the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA), and National Treasury Regulations.
Furthermore, the association cautions that if the Department of Education proceeds with awarding the contract while the appeal process continues, it will signal that the department operates under corrupt officials who disregard principles of good governance, fairness, and transparency.
They warn that such a move could risk repeating the crisis experienced in 2023, when similar allegations disrupted the school feeding programme and raised public concern.
Ntuli Gives Assurance to Parents and Learners
Nevertheless, the association assures parents, learners, and the broader public that services will continue uninterrupted. “No child will attend school without food,” the association stated. Current agreements remain in effect until April 2026, with a possible two-year extension, ensuring the National School Nutrition Programme continues to function effectively.
In addition, the association emphasized that it maintains daily contact with legal representatives, monitors the Provincial Treasury Appeals process, and follows the ongoing investigation by Ntuli’s Office. These measures aim to ensure that the appeals process proceeds fairly and transparently.
Moreover, the controversy has highlighted broader concerns about governance, procurement integrity, and political influence in KwaZulu-Natal. Critics argue that awarding large contracts without fully addressing irregularities undermines public trust and may compromise the quality and fairness of essential services like school feeding.
His careful consideration reflects the high stakes involved, not only for the province’s education system but also for public confidence in government processes.
Consequently, parents, learners, and service providers are closely watching the unfolding situation. The NSNP Service Providers Association continues to advocate for a thorough and transparent resolution to the dispute, emphasizing accountability while reaffirming that the programme will continue to deliver meals to learners without disruption.
Ultimately, as he weighs his decision, stakeholders across the province await a resolution that addresses the allegations of favoritism, ensures compliance with financial regulations, and upholds the integrity of the school feeding programme.
His outcome will likely set an important precedent for future procurement processes in KwaZulu-Natal, balancing efficiency in service delivery with strict adherence to ethical governance.
In the meantime, the public remains hopeful that transparency and accountability will guide the final decision, safeguarding the interests of learners and reinforcing confidence in the province’s education system.
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