Didiza clarifies allocation of R500 million to Onderstepoort biological products. Image Thoko Didiza Instagram post
Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP), established in 2000, is a government-owned company that specializes in producing animal vaccines. Its main objective is to develop and manufacture vaccines to prevent and control animal diseases, thereby protecting food security, human health, and livelihoods in South Africa. To achieve this, OBP focuses on innovation and efficient production methods to deliver high-quality products.
According to Didiza, the details surrounding the allocation are recorded in OBP’s annual reports, including audit reports. A forensic investigation into the utilisation of some of the allocated funds revealed that OBP addressed concerns related to subcontracting through the involvement of the Special Investigative Unit (SIU)Didiza cautioned Steenhuisen against publicly discussing the matter, warning of potential severe repercussions for the Department and its entities.
She expressed her willingness to continue assisting Steenhuisen in understanding the intricacies of the Department and its entities, despite feeling that the handover process was inadequate.
Didiza also expressed concern about the public perception that the previous administration failed to address the challenges. She emphasized the importance of awaiting the outcome of ongoing law enforcement investigations before making conclusive statements.
The clarification provides insight into the handling of the R500 million allocation and highlights the need for careful consideration when discussing sensitive matters publicly Didiza’s office emphasized her willingness to continue supporting Minister John Steenhuisen on this issue and others.
Didiza maintains that it’s premature to make conclusive statements while law enforcement investigations are still underway, as it may give the false impression that the previous administration failed to take action on these matters.
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