The BEE Chamber, a leading authority in B-BBEE compliance, highlights the critical importance of efficiently managing B-BBEE Verification Certificates and Sworn Affidavits to maximise B-BBEE scores and meet procurement targets. Bridget Themba, Certificate Services Manager at The BEE Chamber, emphasises the challenges faced by organisations in collecting and updating essential B-BBEE documentation.
In the realm of B-BBEE compliance, the collection of B-BBEE Verification Certificates, CIPC EME B-BBEE Verifications (B-BBEE Statuses) and Sworn Affidavits is a demanding task that requires resources, patience and meticulous follow-up.
Themba underscores the significance of each valid B-BBEE Status in contributing to an entity’s overall scorecard and meeting procurement objectives. “One of the primary obstacles hindering efficient collection rates is the lack of awareness among suppliers regarding the importance of updating their B-BBEE Statuses, particularly those required to provide a Sworn Affidavit,” she says. “It is crucial for Measured Entities to educate their supply chains on the necessity of regularly updating and submitting B-BBEE documentation.”
The challenges extend beyond supplier awareness to encompass issues such as delayed submissions, inaccuracies in Sworn Affidavits, suppliers measured on the incorrect scorecard, and unexpected changes in supplier information. Effective planning and timely action are imperative to streamline the B-BBEE Verification process and ensure accurate and prompt collection of B-BBEE statuses.
Bridget Themba emphasises the importance of setting realistic timelines and managing expectations to facilitate the seamless collection of B-BBEE Statuses. “By establishing robust Supplier Application processes and educating suppliers on compliance requirements, Measured Entities can enhance their chances of successfully collecting updated B-BBEE Statuses,” she affirms.
Furthermore, The BEE Chamber underscores the critical role of valid B-BBEE Statuses in the verification process. Organisations are urged to adhere to the B-BBEE Commission’s Practice Guide & other legislative requirements to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of B-BBEE Verification Certificates, Sworn Affidavits, and CIPC EME B-BBEE Verifications.
To determine the validity of a B-BBEE Status, specific criteria must be met such as comprehensive completion of Sworn Affidavits, accurate representation of ownership percentages, and adherence to regulatory guidelines etc.
In terms of B-BBEE Verification Certificates, Themba sheds light on the requirements for Technical Signatories who are employed by a South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) accredited B-BBEE Rating Agency, emphasising the importance of accreditation and proficiency in B-BBEE Legislation and compliance standards:
- Not every person employed at a B-BBEE Rating Agency qualifies to be a Technical Signatory.
- A Technical Signatory must not only be declared competent by the B-BBEE Rating Agency they represent, but must have completed the B-BBEE Management Development Programme (MDP) through UNISA or Wits.
- A Technical Signatory is assessed by SANAS, whereby they confirm the competence of the individual.
- A critical part of the Technical Signatory criteria is that they are fully versed on all sets of B-BBEE Codes for which the B-BBEE Rating Agency they represent is accredited to perform.
- Notably, a proficient Technical Signatory will be versed on and align with the policies and procedures of the B-BBEE Rating Agency they represent, as well as the SANAS requirements relating to accreditation and compliance. Only then will a person be acknowledged as a Technical Signatory, which allows them to publish their name on the accreditation schedule of the B-BBEE Rating Agency they represent.
- To authenticate a B-BBEE Certificate, a Technical Signatory must sign it off before issuing it.
As organisations navigate the complexities of B-BBEE compliance, The BEE Chamber remains committed to providing guidance and support in managing B-BBEE Statuses effectively and encourage Measured Entities to prioritise proactive measures to enhance compliance, drive transformation, and achieve sustainable business growth.
For more information on The BEE Chamber and the services it offers, please visit the website.
