KwaZulu-Natal’s National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP), which feeds over two million children daily, is embroiled in another scandal as service providers accuse the provincial Education Department of rigging a multibillion-rand tender for political gain.
The Service Providers Association has alleged that a leaked document reveals pre-selected bidders—many allegedly linked to Education MEC Sipho Hlomuka or his ANC allies—were favored in the latest tender process. The association claims to possess “critical evidence” that it will submit to the Public Protector for investigation.
Explosive Allegations
A representative from the association stated: “The evidence we have will make the Public Protector’s job very easy. It is very, very critical, and we have kept it securely.”
The allegations suggest that the tender process was manipulated ahead of next year’s local government elections, with contracts allegedly awarded to entities that could funnel funds into ANC campaigns. “There’s a lot of quid pro quo… tenders are awarded to companies that will pay those awarding them,” an insider claimed.
Department Denies Claims
MEC Hlomuka’s office has dismissed the allegations as baseless. Department spokesperson Thabo Mthembu challenged critics to provide proof, stating: “Those making these claims must come forward with tangible evidence. Companies listed are those we intend to award, but bidders know the proper channels to contest.”
However, this is not the first controversy to plague the NSNP. Earlier this year, service providers protested late payments and delays, leaving some schools without meals. Now, the focus has shifted to governance concerns, with critics arguing the program—designed to combat child hunger—has been turned into a “political war chest.”
Calls for Independent Probe
With pressure mounting, stakeholders are demanding intervention from the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) and National Treasury. The Service Providers Association insists the tender must be canceled and independently reviewed.
Public Protector spokesperson Khanyisile Dlamini confirmed readiness to investigate if formally approached: “If I receive written information, I can conduct a preliminary investigation. Once the tender process concludes, bidders can appeal, but given the scale, this could take time.”
A Troubled History
The NSNP has faced repeated scandals, from contract disputes to meal delivery failures. The latest claims deepen concerns about transparency and political interference in a program critical to vulnerable children.
As the controversy unfolds, service providers vow to continue their fight, leaving the future of KZN’s school feeding scheme hanging in the balance.
