Hertta-Maria Amutenja
Kavango West Region has found itself embroiled in controversy over the awarding of a tender for services related to the World Malaria Day commemoration.
The frustration comes after a procurement of service was awarded to a single company from the Oshana Region instead of a local company from the Kavango West region.
A letter, dated 25 October 2023, addressed to Minister of Health and Social Services Kalumbi Shangula, from Kavango West Regional Governor Sirkka Ausiku, revealed the concerns and displeasure over the handling of the procurement process.
The tender in question, awarded to Tateeya Investment cc, a company originally from Oshana Region, amounted to N$ 479,785 and encompassed services such as catering, provision of tents, tables and chairs for VIPs and the public during the Malaria Day commemoration held yesterday at Nkurenkure in the Kavango West region.
Ausiku voiced her dismay, saying, “It came to my attention that the procurement process to render services like catering, provision of tents and chairs was awarded to one company. It is unfortunate and disappointing that none of the entrepreneurs from the region were accorded the opportunity to participate,” she said.
She pointed out that in the past, local entrepreneurs were given the opportunity to provide services during the hosting of national events, and services procured from outside the region were only done when necessary.
The governor emphasised the importance of regional events benefiting the host region, particularly in light of unemployment issues.
“Honourable minister unemployment is a reality in all the 14 regions, hence, whenever there is an opportunity for a region to host a national event, resources must benefit the region where the event is taking place,” said Ausiku.
She stated that the awarding of the tender to a single company would be challenging for regional leadership to justify the decision to the public.
The event was initially scheduled for 02 June, however, it was postponed to November to coincide with the Southern Africa Development Community Malaria Day, which was yesterday.
In response to the raised concerns, Minister Kalumbi Shangula acknowledged receiving the letter but affirmed that the Malaria Day event proceeded as scheduled.
“I have received the letter and I have responded to the governor,” he said.
