Pretoria: Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has welcomed the department’s appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) to conduct an investigation into the circumstances surrounding a controversial R800 million Oxygen Plant tender awarded by the Independent Development Trust (IDT).
According to South African Government News Agency, the investigation follows the IDT’s admission last year that three companies were awarded the tender despite two lacking the necessary registration with the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA).
The independent probe is expected to be completed within eight weeks. Its primary objectives include determining whether irregularities occurred during the tender process and whether officials should be held accountable.
The concerns stem from allegations made last year about potential irregularities in awarding the Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) Oxygen Plant bids. These include claims that two of the companies lacked SAHPRA registration and
that one company may have submitted fraudulent documentation.
“This follows an admission by the IDT itself last year that concerns exist regarding the R800-million tender and that these concerns warrant investigation,” the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure said in a statement.
The PwC investigation will focus on several key areas, including examining the tender process, identifying financial misconduct, evaluating legal compliance, quantifying financial losses, uncovering irregularities, and recommending action where necessary.
“The independent investigation will determine whether irregularities occurred during the Oxygen Plant tendering process and whether further action is required against those implicated,” Minister Macpherson said.
He emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, adding that the investigation is a crucial step in improving governance and ensuring that public funds are used responsibly.
“As Minister, I cannot turn a blind eye when serious allegations arise
involving close to R1 billion of public money,” Macpherson stated. “This is why the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure will remain focused on uncovering the truth, holding officials accountable where necessary, and ensuring the integrity of public procurement processes.”
Macpherson also expressed confidence that the investigation would clear innocent individuals while holding guilty parties to account. The minister concluded, “The independent investigation should be welcomed as a vital tool in restoring public trust and addressing any misconduct in the Oxygen Plant tendering process.”