Speaking at the post-budget vote breakfast engagement at the Naval Hill Planetarium in Bloemfontein, premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae declared their participation in the economic ecosystem is “non-negotiable in the seventh administration”. The event was hosted by the department of economic development, tourism and finance, in collaboration with the Black Management Forum and the University of the Free State.

She highlighted systemic challenges in government procurement and strongly criticised the disproportionate awarding of tenders to companies outside the province.

“You will find out of 15 companies (that received tenders), only three are from the Free State; women received zero.”  

She voiced concern that, despite longstanding policies promoting economic inclusivity, vulnerable and previously disadvantaged groups continue to be excluded.

“We really need to change our approach – our wheel must turn and address the issues facing women, young people, and war veterans, because it’s part of our policy. 

“We’re not doing them a favour. War veterans, people living with disabilities – in everything I’ve observed so far, we are simply not addressing those issues.”

During an internal investigation into the department of health’s procurement data for the 2022/23 and 2023/24 financial years, she discovered a glaring imbalance in local empowerment.

“Out of close to R277 million, which was spent (on mechanical components), companies from the Free State only managed to get about R15 million.” 

She said this level of exclusion is unacceptable, and she intends to ensure that Free State businesses, especially those owned by historically disadvantaged groups, are prioritised in public procurement moving forward.

She warned of the potential social instability that could arise if local empowerment is continually ignored.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi