Saul releases Covid-19 procurement report

THE PREMIER of the Northern Cape and chairperson of the Provincial Coronavirus Command Council, Dr Zamani Saul, has released the report on the expenditure incurred by the provincial government on procurement of Covid-19-related items.

According to a statement issued by the Office of the Premier, as at July 31, 2020, the provincial government had spent a total of R171.59 million on personal protective equipment (PPE), social relief, disinfection of public buildings and infrastructure works and repairs.

A total of 175 companies have benefited from the Covid-19-related procurement spend by the Province.

The premier also welcomed and supported the initiative by the president to publish all Covid19 related expenditure for public scrutiny.

“The premier has always been very vocal and is on record regarding the responsible spending of public funds. Making the list accessible to the public is in the interest of transparency and openness and also to give an account on provincial government’s efforts in containing the spread of the pandemic,” the statement by his office said.

“It should also be noted that this list is not conclusive and additions will be made as further expenditure is incurred. This list will also form part of the external audit processes of the auditor-general.”

The provincial government indicated further that it would continue with all protocols and best practices to ensure that the residents of the Northern Cape are best protected against the coronavirus.

“The premier has expressed his satisfaction and optimism in all the efforts but especially our front-line health services workers in containing the spread and devastating consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The greater part of all economic, social and tertiary activities has been opened, albeit under stringent conditions and therefore Premier Saul calls on all of us to do our part and to become active combatants in the war against Covid-19.

“As we know, the virus is spread and moved by people and it becomes incumbent on all to act responsibly and consciously. We are responsible for the well-being of one another and we cannot impress the importance to religiously follow all safety protocols declared. We continue to advocate for the mandatory wearing of masks, practise social distancing and continue to wash hands with water and soap or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.”