Department of Basic Education addresses controversy over school feeding program

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has strongly addressed recent accusations concerning the National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP), dismissing allegations of corruption and irregularities in the tender process. Director-General Mathanzima Mweli issued a statement to clarify the department’s stance and uphold the integrity of the modernization initiative.

Basic Education refuting allegations of Corruption

Mweli strongly denied the claims made in a Sunday Times article titled “Gwarube halts R10bn school food tender,” published on 18 August. He labelled the article as filled with “numerous inaccuracies, fabrications, and falsehoods,” specifically rejecting the notion that the DBE had published the NSNP tender “surreptitiously” or without ministerial oversight.

“The DBE rejects the suggestion that it surreptitiously published the NSNP tender at a time when it had no Minister,” Mweli asserted. He clarified that the tender was, in fact, published on 22 July, well after the new administration had assumed office.

Clarifying the modernisation process

Addressing accusations that the modernisation of the NSNP was a scheme for corrupt ends, Mweli emphasised the clear and open process behind the initiative. He explained that the modernisation process began in July 2023 and involved extensive discussions within key education bodies, including the Heads of Education Committee (HEDCOM) and the Council of Education Ministers (CEM).

“The assertion that the management of the DBE concocted the modernization scheme for corrupt ends is also rejected,” Mweli stated. He pointed to the detailed records and consultations with National Treasury and Senior Counsel, confirming the legality and strategic intent of the modernization project. “The DBE is convinced that the process it initiated is lawful in every respect,” he added.

Focus on Learner Welfare and Economic Development

Mweli also dealt with concerns regarding the centralisation of the NSNP, telling that the modernisation aims to enhance the quality of meals for learners while maximizing government purchasing power. He pointed out the programme’s focus on supporting poor children, especially in light of increased demand following the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The rationale of the modernisation project is to ensure that the state maximizes its buying power… to improve the quality and quantity of the plate for our children,” Mweli explained.

He refuted claims that the tender would go to a single entity, stressing that the model includes provisions for small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) and smallholder farmers, aiming to create over 30 000 sustainable jobs.