The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Msunduzi is urging the MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Sipho Hlomuka, the MEC of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Ravi Pillay, and relevant provincial structures to request that the Special Investigative Unit (SIU) probe the crisis at the Msunduzi Forestry entity.
This comes after an Internal report was presented at the Full Council meeting today, highlighting 14 major high-risk findings of mismanagement. See here.
An external audit report done through SANBI Biodiversity and Land Use Project also detailed the damning findings of maladministration, mismanagement, and corruption in the City’s forests.
The report showed that the city’s forest in 2019 was valued at approximately R79 million, and that value could very well have appreciated since. In the external report, it was found that a major tender was awarded to Nzama Contractors for a sale of 29 765.75 tons of timber for almost R19 million. No evidence of contracts or paperwork was provided, and no proof of payment by the contractors upfront was furnished as per the legislated requirements.
The continuous reports of theft and looting of the City’s forests has reached a point of provincial concern. The lack of management over the years has left this entity in a shocking state that could develop into a serious fire risk that may result in a disaster similar to that of the devastating fires in Knysna in 2018.
The DA believes that the situation is completely illegal and those responsible must be investigated and charged accordingly. The potential and value of our forestry is undisputed and could fund the city’s coffers with the much-needed revenue.
The ANC-run Municipality has once again proven that they are here to line their own pockets to the detriment of the City, they care nothing for development, jobs, and investment for the people of Msunduzi.
The DA will continue to challenge this matter, hold those responsible for the crisis accountable, and ensure that this entity is managed accordingly with the capacity and expertise needed to expose the forestry entity’s full potential.