Beitbridge border Fence could take years to finish

Constructing a new border fence at Beitbridge is under consideration, but it could take up to four years to complete. Parliament’s Standing Committee on Public Accounts says, no more money should be spent on fixing the existing fence which has cost taxpayers at least R27-million.

Scopa’s also concerned about other contracts worth at least R400-million awarded to the same companies responsible for the mess.

Labelled a national embarrassment, Scopa says any more money spent to fix the fence which is less than a year old, will amount to fruitless and wasteful expenditure. Public Works Minister Patricia De Lille says her department can’t be held responsible for the damage, and the breaches.

“The department of defence is the user department, and therefore they play a major role in agreeing or advising us on solutions and specifications to the fence.

While legal proceedings are still underway to recoup the money spent on the fence, Scopa is questioning the validity of 19 other contracts awarded to the same two companies.

The Public Works Department says it must complete an audit on the projects first and take legal advice. Scopa says the process is moving too slowly.

Eleven of 13 department officials involved in the debacle are expected to be served with final charges this week.

In other news – Anele Mdoda to host a new talk show

Anele Mdoda has been announced to host a new talk show which features presenters from other African countries. Anele has been teasing working on something entertaining, and fans have been anticipating. Learn more

Source: eNCA