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AfriForum has just made a formal request in terms of the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) to the Mpumalanga Education Department in order to obtain more information about the purchase of 22 laptops in December 2024.

This follows after an anonymous source provided information to AfriForum indicating that the laptops were apparently purchased at a cost far above the general market price of similar computers.

In the request, AfriForum asks, among other things, how the specifications for the models and software bought had been agreed upon; details of the tender process that was followed; the names of suppliers who submitted tenders for the purchases; the final amount for which the laptops were purchased; any documents that outline the pricing structure; for which purposes the laptops will be used; as well as an explanation of the budget allocation for the purchase thereof.

According to Alana Bailey, AfriForum’s Head of Cultural Affairs, it is essential that civil rights watchdogs such as AfriForum keep their ears to the ground in an effort to prevent misappropriation. She emphasises that any possible misuse of funds by education authorities at provincial or national level is not only unacceptable and must be addressed, but also leaves a sour taste in the mouth when one considers the many challenges schools and learners face as a result of budget shortfalls.

“With this in mind, AfriForum is following up on the allegations regarding this transaction to ensure that the expenditure is justified. The Mpumalanga Department of Education’s response to the PAIA application will indicate whether the information AfriForum received is correct or not. If necessary, further steps can be decided on the basis thereof,” Bailey concludes.

Issued by AfriForum