Forensic investigation services for whistle-blower report – national tender (RFP)

{"closingDate":"28 SEPTEMBER 2026","closingTime":"11:00 am","briefingSession":"{"date":"10 September 2026","time":"10H00","venue":"ure of whistleblower allegations, the complexity of the investigation and the inability","is_compulsory":true}"}

Compulsory briefing session: 10 September 2026, 10H00-11H00, online via Microsoft Teams (link provided). Attendance is mandatory due to the confidential nature of the whistleblower allegations and the inability to disclose irregular expenditure registers publicly. Failure to attend will result in automatic disqualification.

{"name":null,"email":"[email protected]","phone":"012 366 2600","department":null,"address":"ture determination test as required by the PFMA."}

11.1 The service provider shall be fully responsible for the quality and completeness of all work

performed. Any work deemed unsatisfactory, incomplete, or non-compliant with the agreed

scope, specifications, or professional standards shall be re-performed, corrected, or amended

at the sole cost of the service provider.

11.2 Under no circumstances shall SAMSA be liable for any additional costs arising from

rework, including but not limited to corrections, revisions, or amendments requested by

SAMSA management, audit functions, or governance structures (including LCC).

11.3 All such rework and required amendments shall be deemed to be included in the original

quoted price, and no additional fees or charges shall be entertained.

11.4 The bidder, its directors, shareholders, employees, subcontractors and proposed experts

must declare any actual, perceived or potential conflict of interest involving:

11.4.1 Samsa;

11.4.2 Msp;

11.4.3 Suppliers under investigation;

11.4.4 Officials under investigation;

11.4.5 Related parties.

11.5 Where engineering services are to be outsourced, the bidder must provide all required

information and supporting documentation relating to the proposed outsourced resource(s).

Should the submitted information, qualifications, registrations, certifications, or experience not

meet the minimum requirements of this bid, the bidder will be deemed not to have met the

mandatory requirement, and the bid proposal will be considered non-responsive and may not

be evaluated further.

11.6 Failure to disclose shall constitute grounds for disqualification or termination.

11.7 All qualifications submitted by bidders must be obtained from accredited and recognised institutions

and be verifiable through SAQA, the relevant Quality Council, recognised verification agencies, or the

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issuing institution. SAMSA reserves the right to verify the authenticity and accreditation status of all

qualifications submitted. Where a qualification was obtained outside South Africa, a valid SAQA Certificate

of Evaluation must be provided to confirm recognition and equivalence on the National Qualifications

Framework (NQF). Qualifications that cannot be verified or, in the case of foreign qualifications, are not

accompanied by a SAQA evaluation certificate where required, may not be considered for evaluation

purposes

12 payments and invoicing

12.1 The quoted price must be all-inclusive, covering inflation, VAT, and any other

miscellaneous costs required to deliver on the full scope of work as outlined in this RFQ.

12.2 The quoted amount must include all travel and associated expenses required to conduct

interviews, site visits or meetings within Gauteng and the Western Cape.

12.3 All submitted invoices must detail the work performed during the invoice period.

12.4 Payment will be effected by achieving the following milestones:

Milestone Payment

Approved Inception 10%

Report

Completion of Fieldwork 30%

Draft Reports 30%

Final Approved Reports 30%

12.5 The bidder is expected to complete the investigation within the agreed timeline, with all

deliverables submitted as per the Terms of Reference.

12.6 Any travel outside Gauteng and the Western Cape Province must be agreed in writing with

SAMSA and will be done through SAMSA's travel agency, in line with SAMSA's travel policy.

SAMSA reserves the right to immediately terminate the contract in cases of material breach,

negligence, or persistent underperformance. Payment shall be made for the work completed to

SAMSA’s satisfaction.

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Part 4: pricing model

1 Payment Terms

1.1 The SAMSA undertakes to pay valid tax invoices in full within thirty (30) days from the statement

date for services rendered in accordance to key milestones; and

1.2 All supporting documents for services rendered should be submitted together with the tax invoices

as and when a service has been rendered.

2. Validity

2.1 A Proposal shall remain valid for one hundred and twenty (120) days after the closing date of the

submission for proposals. A Proposal which is valid for a shorter period may be rejected by the

SAMSA for non-responsiveness.

2.2 In exceptional circumstances, SAMSA may solicit the bidder’s consent to an extension of the

period of the validity of the bid. The request and responses thereto shall be made in writing. A

bidder that has been granted the request will neither be required nor permitted to modify the

Proposal. `

3. Pricing Table

Item quantity description bid price in RSA currency NO. ** (all applicable taxes included)

Quantity cost per hour total cost

Inclusive Vat

NO description uom

1 Undertaking of forensic investigation Hours *180 R R

2 Performing Determination tests and Hours *360 R R

investigations as per full scope of work

3 Provide a comprehensive Investigation Hours *80 R R

Report as outlined in the scope of work

4 Develop an irregular, fruitless and Hours *80 R R

wasteful expenditure impracticality

framework

5 Attendance and Presentation of Hours *32 R R

investigation reports in stakeholder

meetings

6 Travel and associated costs for Trips 4 R R

presentations to management in Pretoria

(where applicable)

7 Outsourced engineering As required R R

services and associated technical support

8 Disbursements R

9 Additional Provisional costs R

Total amount - inclusive of VAT r

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Important pricing and scope notes

1. Capped Hours and Prior Approval

The total approved hours constitute the maximum allowable hours for this assignment, including hours

allocated to secondary/supporting staff and key project team members. No additional hours may be incurred

or invoiced without the prior written approval of SAMSA. Any work undertaken without such approval shall be

at the service provider's own cost and will not be paid for by SAMSA.

Any request for additional hours must be submitted in writing and be supported by detailed evidence of the

work performed, including but not limited to timesheets, attendance registers, activity reports, meeting records,

progress reports, and any other documentation deemed relevant by SAMSA.

SAMSA reserves the right to assess and determine the reasonableness, necessity, and validity of the hours

claimed in relation to the work performed, deliverables achieved, and project requirements. Approval of

additional hours shall be at SAMSA's sole discretion. Hours that cannot be substantiated, are deemed

excessive, inefficient, duplicated, or not directly attributable to the scope of work will not be approved or paid.

The submission of inaccurate, misleading, inflated, or unsupported claims for hours worked may constitute a

material breach of contract and may result in the rejection of the claim, withholding of payment, contract

termination, and/or any other remedies available to SAMSA.

2. Capped Awarded Amount

The total approved quoted amount constitutes the maximum allowable amount for this assignment,

including work charged for secondary / supporting staff to Key team project members.

The quoted price must be all-inclusive, covering inflation, VAT, and any other miscellaneous costs required to

deliver on the full scope of work as outlined in this RFQ.

The quoted amount must include all travel and associated expenses required to conduct interviews, site visits

or meetings.

All submitted invoices must detail the work performed during the invoice period.

The bidder is expected to complete the investigation within the agreed timeline, with all

deliverables submitted as per the Terms of Reference.

The bidder must account for costs to mobilise resources within the Western Cape and any other location

required for purposes of the assignment.

Any travels outside Western Cape Province must be agreed in writing with SAMSA, and will be done through

SAMSA travel agency, in line with SAMSA's travel policy.

3. Detailed Timesheets and Invoicing

All invoices must be supported by detailed timesheets indicating the date, description of work performed,

time spent, and the team/staff members involved. SAMSA reserves the right to reject invoices not adequately

supported.

4. Deliverable-Linked Payments

Payment will be made only upon submission and acceptance of agreed written deliverables, including final

reports as approved by SAMSA. SAMSA may withhold payment for incomplete or unsatisfactory work.

5. Disbursements and Scope Control

The bidder must account for all disbursements, incidental expenses, and any other costs required to deliver

the full scope of work. No additional costs will be accepted or reimbursed unless approved in writing by

SAMSA prior to being incurred. SAMSA reserves the right to verify the reasonableness and validity of any

costs claimed.

6. Provisions to deliver the full scope of work

The service provider shall make provision in its quotation for all costs required to deliver the full scope of work,

including any ancillary, outsourced, or specialist services. All such costs must be fully inclusive in the quoted

price, as no additional claims will be accepted by SAMSA.

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The extent of work required is detailed in the Scope of Work. The estimated hours provided in the pricing table

are for evaluation purposes only and do not necessarily reflect the actual time required to complete the

assignment. Bidders are therefore required to consider the full scope of work, together with any additional

information and detailed analysis provided during the compulsory briefing session, when preparing their

quotations.

7. Pricing table and contents

Bidders may submit their pricing on the prescribed pricing schedule contained in the SBD or by means of a

separate quotation on the bidder's official company letterhead. Where a separate quotation is submitted, it

must contain all the information, pricing components, quantities, hours, rates, and other details required in the

prescribed pricing schedule to enable a like-for-like comparison and evaluation.

Bidders may include additional line items, costs, or pricing components not expressly listed in the prescribed

pricing schedule where these are necessary to provide a complete and comprehensive price for the full scope

of the bid. Such additional items must be clearly identified and priced separately.

The inclusion of additional items does not remove the requirement for bidders to account for the full scope of

work and provide all information required in the prescribed pricing schedule. Where a bidder fails to provide

sufficient pricing information for the full scope of work, the bid may be regarded as incomplete and non-

responsive.

In the event of any discrepancy or inconsistency between the pricing reflected in the prescribed pricing

schedule and that contained in any separate quotation or supporting pricing document, the price contained in

the prescribed pricing schedule shall prevail, unless otherwise determined by SAMSA.

Bidders shall be deemed to have included all costs, disbursements, overheads, and other expenses necessary

for the successful delivery of the full scope of work. No claims for additional costs arising from omissions in

the bidder's pricing submission will be accepted after bid closing.

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Part 5. Evaluation criteria

1.1 Legislative and regulatory framework

1.1.1 The evaluation of bids received will be conducted with accordance with the prescripts of the

Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act 2000 (Act no.), its Regulations of 2022

and the evaluation criteria as stipulated in the specification/terms of reference and special

conditions of contract.

1.2 Phase 1: administrative requirements (pre-evaluation)

1.2.1 Phase one evaluation will include the following:

(i) Verify all declarations (SBD 4 – Declaration of interest);

(ii) Determine whether any Government official participated in the bidding process;

(iii) Verify whether all applicable forms have been signed;

(iv) Submission of the Tax certificate and the copy of the CSD;

(v) All bids will be evaluated in terms of functionality and preference point system which

comprises of the following:

Note: Failure to comply with the requirements assessed in Level 1 (governance), may lead to

disqualification of bids.

1.3. Phase 2 – mandatory requirement

All bid responses that do not meet all the mandatory requirements shall be disqualified and shall not be

considered for further evaluation on the other technical requirements. The mandatory technical requirements

are as follows.

Mandatory requirement Comply Not Comply

The bidder (Firm/Company) must be registered with one of the

following:

• Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors (IRBA);
• South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA);
• Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE)
• Institute of Commercial Forensic Practitioners (ICFP)

NB: Important to note

Bidders must submit a valid and current letter or certificate from the

professional body/bodies confirming such valid membership, non-

submission of the requested will lead to disqualification.

The director(s) or owner(s) of the company must have at least two

(02) of the below requirements:

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• Certified Fraud Examiners (CFE) or valid membership of the

Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE);

• Registered Auditor (RA) and valid membership with

Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors (IRBA); and

• CA(SA) and valid membership with the Institute of South

Africa Chartered Accountants (SAICA)

• Institute of Commercial Forensic Practitioners (ICFP)

Bidders must submit a letter or certificate from the professional

body/bodies confirming such membership/Certificate.

NB: Important to note

• The required membership/Certificate is applicable to both

director(s) or owner(s) of the company.

• Non-submission of the requested will lead to disqualification
• SAMSA reserves the right to verify the membership during

evaluation.

Availability of Qualified Engineer/Naval Architecture

The bidder must demonstrate access to a suitably qualified and

competent engineer for the duration of the project.

Where the bidder intends to outsource these services, the bidder

must submit a signed and dated letter on the company’s official

letterhead confirming its intention to outsource the engineering

services.

Qualification requirement

Qualified Marine Engineer/Naval Architecture with a valid

membership from the South African Institute of Marine Engineers and

Naval Architects (SAIMENA);

Submission requirements: 1x original bid document (also for contract signing), 1x copy of the original, and 1x electronic replica on USB (PDF). The original must be initialled on each page and signed where required. The original takes precedence in case of discrepancies. Bids must be submitted in sealed envelopes, with the bid number and description on the cover, and must be registered in the Tender Register at reception. Separate envelopes for pricing and technical documents are required.

Bidders must attend the compulsory briefing session on 10 September 2026. Bidders must be tax compliant (provide tax compliance status PIN) and registered on the Central Supplier Database (CSD). Bidders must submit a certified B-BBEE certificate (SANAS-accredited verification agency, IRBA-registered auditor, or accounting officer). Bidders must submit fully completed SBD 1 (Invitation to Bid), SBD 4 (Bidder's Disclosure), SBD 6.1 (Preference Claim Certificate), and the General Conditions of Contract (GCC). Bidders must provide proof of professional registrations and qualifications for key personnel as specified (CA(SA), RA, CFE, SAIMENA, LPC, etc.). Bidders must declare any conflict of interest; failure to disclose is grounds for disqualification. Bidders must not have submitted fraudulent, factually untrue, or inaccurate information; must not have canvassed or lobbied SAMSA employees; and must not have committed fraudulent acts. Bids with obvious deviations from requirements, incomplete information, or failure to price the full required scope may be rejected. Bidders must not introduce counter conditions or amendments to bid conditions. Bidders must be compliant with POPIA and have appropriate security measures for personal information. Bidders must not be involved in collusive bidding or restrictive practices as per the Competition Act.

1.1 The purpose is to outsource the services of a Forensic Investigator to undertake the following:

(a) A forensic investigation into the Whistle-blower report and,

(b) Irregular, fruitless, wasteful expenditure determination test as required by the PFMA.

SAMSA is a Schedule 3(a) public entity in terms of the PFMA.

2 legal mandate

2.1 SAMSA, as an organ of state, is required by the National Strategic Intelligence Act, 1994 ( Act

No. ) and the minimum Information Security Standard (MISS) - which is a national

policy on information security approved by Cabinet on 04 December 1996 - to ensure, at all times,

adequate provision and maintenance of proper security measures in the institution to mitigate

possible and potential security risks to personnel, property, assets and information.

2.2 There is other relevant and applicable legislation, which includes among others, Control of Access

to Public Premises and Vehicles Act, 1985 (Act No. ); Fire Arms Control Act, 2000 ( Act

No. ), Security Industry Regulation Authority Act, 2001 (Act No.) Private

Security Industry Regulation Act, (Act No. ) and Criminal Procedure Act, 1997 (Act No.

) as amended.

3. Duration of the contract

3.1 The contract shall be valid for four (04) months

4. Service level agreement

4.1 A Service Level Agreement (SLA), based on the terms and conditions of this bid, shall be signed

by the successful bidder before the commencement of duties on site. The SLA shall be valid for

four (04) months from the date of appointment

5. SAMSA’s DISCRETION

5.1 SAMSA reserves the right to: -

5.1.1 Accept one or more bid submissions.

5.1.2 Reject all bids submitted.

5.1.3 Request further information from any bidder after the closing date.

5.1.4 Cancel this bid or any part thereof anytime.

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1. Forensic Investigation

The key objective of this project is:

1.1 Undertake an investigation to determine whether the whistle-blower allegations are true in nature

by interviewing individuals as mentioned in the whistleblowing report;

1.2 Examining documentation related to the allegation as per the whistleblowing report;

1.3 Interview relevant employees and obtain evidence to support investigation findings;

1.4 Sight visitation as part of the investigation to ascertain the existence of the property in question

as mentioned in the whistleblower report;

1.5 Determine if laws, regulations, Delegations of Authority and SAMSA policy were followed during

the procurement of the goods and services;

1.6 Where instances of non-compliance are identified, determine if such were reported to the next

level of authority (Executive Manager);

1.7 Obtain sworn statements from the interviewees, if possible, as support to the evidence provided;

and

1.8 Sight visitation to companies listed in the whistleblower report to confirm allegations thereto.

2. Determination Test of Unauthorised, Irregular, Fruitless and Wasteful Expenditure

2.1 The purpose and objectives of this determination test are to:

2.1.1 To determine the root causes that led to unauthorised, irregular, fruitless and wasteful

expenditure;

2.1.2 Ascertain whether SCM policies and processes were contravened and if so, determine the root

cause and the official or officials responsible for the irregular or fruitless and wasteful

expenditure;

2.1.3 Determine any losses incurred

2.1.4 Determine allegations of fraudulent, corrupt, or other criminal conduct;

2.1.5 Breakdown in the designed internal control systems;

2.1.6 The names of the individuals who permitted irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure should

be disclosed in the report;

2.1.7 Recommend consequence management and, where warranted, referral of matters involving

fraud, corruption or criminal conduct to SAPS or other relevant authorities in accordance with the

Compliance Framework and applicable legislation; and

2.1.8 Assist the organisation with an A1 statement when events of fraud, corruption and criminal in

nature have been identified.

2.2 Extent of the Irregular Expenditure

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The investigation will cover the period from 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2026, with the priority focus

initially on the period 1 April 2025 to 31 March 2026.

Bidders must note that there are both confirmed and unconfirmed irregular expenditure transactions

within the stated period. As at the date of this RFQ, the confirmed irregular expenditure amounts to

R165 million.

However, this amount is not exhaustive. Any additional transactions that may be subsequently

identified and confirmed through internal or external processes within the stipulated period will form

part of the investigation and must be included in the scope of work and pricing considerations.

Furthermore, the service provider must acknowledge that any other transactions identified by

management, falling within the above-mentioned period, will automatically be included in the

investigation scope and shall form part of the overall determination test.

As part of the scope of work, the service provider shall also undertake an investigation and/or irregular

fruitless and wasteful expenditure determination test on the cumulative balance of R 798 million incurred

over a period from 1 April 2013 to date, which also forms part of the scope of work and pricing

considerations.

The bidder must assess the determination test report that were historical completed and provide guidance

on whether the amounts recommended for condonation and/or write-off meet the definition of irregular

expenditure and that they are accurate.

Due to the requirements of the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and applicable internal

governance documents, the irregular expenditure registers cannot be shared during the RFQ process.

Notwithstanding this limitation, relevant details may be discussed and clarified during the compulsory

briefing session.

2.4 Location of the project

The bidder must be capable of mobilising resources within the Western Cape and Pretoria locations, which

is required for the purposes of the assignment.

2.5 The service provider must perform an independent expert determination, including technical

verification and assurance, to confirm whether services were rendered in respect of the identified

irregular expenditure and whether such expenditure resulted in value for money to the organisation,

which must include, but not be limited to, the following:

2.5.1 Technical and Expert Assessment

2.5.1.1 Perform an independent technical assessment, utilising appropriately qualified specialists

(including marine engineering expertise where applicable), to evaluate the nature and quality of

services allegedly rendered by suppliers.

2.5.1.2 Provide an expert opinion on whether the goods and/or services claimed were in fact delivered in

accordance with contractual or operational requirements and industry standards.

2.5.1.3 Perform a value for money assessment, including determining whether the costs charged by

service providers are reasonable, market-related, and commensurate with the work performed;

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2.5.2 Verification of Service Delivery

2.5.2.1 Verify, through supporting evidence and physical/technical validation where applicable, that:

2.5.2.2 The services or goods were actually rendered or delivered;

2.5.2.3 The scope of work executed corresponds with invoices and payment claims; and

2.5.2.4 There is sufficient proof of performance (e.g., reports, certifications, inspection findings, logbooks,

or equivalent records).

2.5.3 Value for Money Assessment

2.5.3.1 Conduct a detailed value for money analysis, including:

2.5.3.1.1 Assessment of whether the pricing is reasonable, market-related, and commensurate with the

work performed;

2.5.3.1.2 Benchmarking costs against industry norms or similar projects where possible; and

2.5.3.1.3 Determination of whether the organisation derived fair, reasonable, and commensurate

value from the expenditure incurred.

2.5.4 Assurance and Conclusion

2.5.4.1 Provide independent assurance on each transaction reviewed, clearly indicating:

2.5.4.1.1 Whether services were rendered;

2.5.4.1.2 Whether the services met the required technical and contractual standards; and

2.5.4.1.3 Whether value for money was achieved.

2.5.4.1.4 Each case must be categorised with a clear outcome, such as:

2.5.4.1.4.1 Value for money achieved;

2.5.4.1.4.2 Partial value for money;

2.5.4.1.4.3 No value for money; or

2.5.4.1.4.4 Inconclusive (with reasons).

2.5.4.2 The independent expert opinions and assurance provided must be:

2.5.4.2.1 Based on sufficient, appropriate, and verifiable evidence;

2.5.4.2.2 Prepared with due professional care and in accordance with recognised professional

standards; and

2.5.4.2.3 Clearly supported by technical analysis and documented findings.

2.6 The service provider acknowledges that:

2.6.1 The findings, expert opinions, and assurance reports will be relied upon by SAMSA’s governance

structures, including the Loss Control Committee (LCC) and the Executive Authority, in making

determinations regarding irregular expenditure, including condonation, recovery, or further action;

and

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2.6.2 Such reports may be used as formal evidence in internal and external processes, including audits,

investigations by oversight bodies, and proceedings before legislated institutions, including courts

of law.

3 supporting evidence and reporting

3.1 The service provider shall prepare and submit a comprehensive, detailed, and evidence-based

Investigation Report for all determination assessments conducted. The report must be structured in a

clear and logical manner and must provide sufficient detail to support decision-making and withstand

audit and legal scrutiny.

3.2 The Investigation Report must include, at a minimum, the following components:

3.2.1 Detailed findings per case, including a clear description of the transaction, supplier, and nature of

the irregular expenditure;

3.2.2 Technical assessment and expert opinion, confirming whether the services (including vessel

repairs and maintenance) were rendered, the extent and quality of such work, and whether the

work complies with applicable technical and industry standards;

3.2.3 Value for money assessment and conclusion, indicating whether the costs charged by the

service provider are reasonable, market-related, and commensurate with the work performed,

including a clear determination outcome (value for money achieved, partially achieved measured in

percentages, or not achieved);

3.2.4 Identification of responsible persons, where applicable, including any officials, suppliers, or

other parties whose actions or omissions contributed to the irregular expenditure;

3.2.5 Recommendations for remedial actions, including corrective measures required to address

identified deficiencies or financial implications (e.g., recovery of funds, contract adjustments,

including consequence management);

3.2.6 Recommendations for preventative measures, aimed at strengthening internal controls,

improving procurement and contract management processes, and preventing recurrence of similar

irregularities;

3.2.7 Recommendations for further investigation, including referral to external bodies such as the

South African Police Service (SAPS) or other relevant authorities, where there is reasonable

suspicion of fraud, corruption, or other unlawful activities; and

3.2.8 Supporting evidence and audit trail, ensuring that all findings, conclusions, and

recommendations are fully substantiated and traceable to verifiable documentation and technical

analysis.

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3.3 The report must present findings in a manner that provides independent, objective, and defensible

assurance and must be suitable for reliance by SAMSA’s governance structures, including the Loss

Control Committee (LCC) and the Executive Authority.

3.4 In summary, the reports provided must provide the following answers for each transaction:

3.4.1 Is it irregular expenditure?

3.4.2 Was the service delivered?

3.4.3 Did the service meet the specification?

3.4.4 Was the pricing reasonable?

3.4.5 Was the pricing market-related?

3.4.6 Was value for money obtained?

3.4.7 Was there financial loss?

3.4.8 Is recovery recommended?

3.4.9 Is condonation recommended?

3.4.10 Is disciplinary action recommended?

3.4.11 Is criminal referral recommended?

3.5 The service provider acknowledges that the Investigation Report may be used as formal evidence in

internal governance processes, audits, and external proceedings, including those involving legislated

institutions and courts of law. Accordingly, the report must be accurate, complete, and capable of

withstanding professional, audit, and legal scrutiny.

4 independence and impartiality

4.1 The bidder and key project members/staff must:

4.1.1 Declare any potential conflicts of interest prior to commencing the investigation.

4.1.2 Operate independently of management, the Board, and all parties involved.

4.1.3 Ensure procedural fairness, transparency, and objectivity throughout the investigation.

4.1.4 Avoid any conduct that could prejudice the investigation or the parties involved.

5 confidentiality

5.1 All information, documents, and interviews must remain strictly confidential.

5.2 The information obtained may only be used for the purposes of the investigation.

5.3 The investigator is expected to maintain confidentiality even after the conclusion of the investigation.

6. Geographical coverage and resource availability

6.1 The successful bidder shall be required to provide services in the Western Cape and Gauteng provinces

and must ensure that resources are available to render the services at either location as and when

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required. Bidders must include all travel, accommodation, subsistence, and any other related costs in

their total bid price. No additional costs for travel or related expenses will be accepted by SAMSA during

the contract period.

7 deliverables

7.1 The appointed Service Provider is expected to provide:

7.1.1 Investigation Plan: outlining methodology, timelines, and stakeholder engagement.

7.1.2 Interview Records: documenting all interviews conducted with witnesses, complainants, and the

accused.

7.1.3 Evidence Bundle: including all documentation reviewed and referenced.

7.1.4 Draft Report: for internal review prior to submission.

7.1.5 Final Investigation Report: including factual findings, analysis, conclusions, and recommendations

for action as outlined in paragraphs 2 and 3 of the scope of work.

7.1.6 Develop an irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure impracticality framework.

7.1.7 The bidder will:

7.1.7.1 Provide weekly progress updates to: Risk Senior Manager and LCC through the LCC Chairperson

7.1.7.2 Summary of the deliverables:

7.1.7.3 Deliverable 1

7.1.7.3.1 Forensic Investigation Report & Determination test report for the R171 million, including

the value for money and technical assessment report.

7.1.7.4 Deliverable 2

7.1.3.4.1 Irregular Expenditure Determination Report from the years 2013-2025 (historical balance)

7.1.7.5 Deliverable 3

7.1.7.5.1 Develop an irregular, fruitless and wasteful expenditure impracticality framework

7.1.7.6 Deliverable 4

7.1.7.6.1 Consolidated final report for the governance structures which must be compiled in line with the

IFW framework.

8 project timelines

8.1 Commencement of the Project: within seven (7) days of appointment.

8.2 Duration: not to exceed 4 months, unless exceptional circumstances arise.

8.3 Deliverable 1: This deliverable is due within 2 months from the date of appointment.

8.4 Deliverable 2, 3 & 4: These deliverables are due prior to the end of 4 months from the date of

appointment

8.5 Interim Updates: The investigator shall provide weekly progress updates to the Risk Senior Manager

and LCC through the LCC Chairperson.

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9 key team expertise

9.1 The bidder must ensure that it has the following minimum key personnel assigned to the project.

These resources are considered critical for the successful execution of the assignment and must meet

the specified qualifications, professional registrations, and minimum post-qualification experience:

Team member qualification professional minimum experience

Institution post qualification

Project Lead CA(SA), RA SAICA, IRBA 10 years

Accounting Expert CA(SA), RA SAICA, IRBA 5 years

Forensic and Risk CFP-FA, CFE ICFP, ACFE 5years

Expert

Technical Expert Marine engineers, (SAIMENA); 5 years

Marine Surveyor, or

Classification

Society Surveyor

Technical Expert Naval Architecture (SAIMENA); 5 years

Legal Expert Admitted High court LPC 5 years public law

Attorney experience.

9.2 The bidder shall utilise only the Key Personnel whose curricula vitae (CVs), qualifications, and

experience were submitted and evaluated as part of this bid. Any proposed changes to the approved

team must be submitted in writing and shall be subject to the prior written approval of SAMSA.

9.3 Any replacement personnel must meet or exceed the minimum qualification, professional registration,

and experience requirements as specified and evaluated in this bid.

9.4 The changes to staff members must meet the minimum criteria evaluated for this bid.

10. General conditions

10.1 SAMSA reserves the right not to appoint a service provider or to cancel the tender process.

10.2 SAMSA reserves the right to immediately terminate the contract in cases of material

breach, negligence, or persistent underperformance.

10.3 SAMSA may further escalate such matters in accordance with applicable regulatory

frameworks, including reporting to relevant authorities, where warranted.

10.4 Only the approved and evaluated key project team members, as part of your proposal,

must be part of the audit project, and any changes to the key project team members must be

formally submitted for approval by SAMSA. Replacements of the project key team members

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must meet the same mandatory requirements as stipulated in this RFQ.

10.5 All other provisions, instructions, and notes contained in this Bid document including those relating to

evaluation criteria, pricing requirements, and quotation submission, shall be deemed to form part of and

be applicable to these General Conditions.

10.6 The service provider shall remain fully responsible and accountable for all work performed

by subcontractors or third parties and must ensure that such parties comply with the

applicable professional standards, qualifications, and registration requirements as

stipulated in the scope of work. Any failure by a third party to meet these requirements will

be treated as non-performance by the service provider.

ability to perform the contract in accordance with the specification, the bidder may be

declared non-responsive or the award may not be made to that bidder, and SAMSA may

proceed to the next highest-ranked responsive bidder.

• For panel appointments, the allocation of work shall be undertaken in accordance

with SAMSA's supplier rotation methodology, as amended from time to time.

• SAMSA reserves the right to conduct due diligence on any recommended bidder

prior to award. Where information obtained through such due diligence indicates that

awarding a contract may expose the institution to significant reputational, legal, ethical,

financial, or operational risk, the institution may, after due consideration and in accordance

with applicable procurement legislation and principles of fairness, decide not to proceed

with the award to the recommended bidder.

Minimum of 5 years of experience as a qualified and competent

Marine Engineer/Naval Architecture.

NB: Important to note

Prior to formal appointment, the successful bidder must provide

SAMSA with the details of the proposed engineer, together with valid

proof of qualifications, professional registrations, and relevant

certifications for verification and approval.

The bidder must provide a signed and dated letter, on the bidder’s

official company letterhead, confirming either that:

1. a Marine Engineer individual has been outsourced/appointed

to perform the required services; or

2. a Marine Engineering company has been

outsourced/appointed to perform the required services; or

3. the bidder intends to outsource/appoint a suitably qualified

Marine Engineer individual or Marine Engineering company

to perform the required services, should the bid be successful.

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1.4 Phase 3 - functionality/technical evaluation

a) Bids will be evaluated strictly according to the bid evaluation criteria stipulated in the terms

of reference.

b) Bidders must, as part of their bid documents, submit supportive documentation for all

technical requirements as indicated hereunder.

c) Bidders will not rate themselves but need to ensure that all information is supplied as

required.

d) The Bid Evaluation Committee (BEC) will evaluate and score all responsive bids and will

verify all documents submitted by the bidders.

e) The BEC will individually evaluate the responses received against the following criteria as

set out below: each individual criterion on the score sheet using the following scale:

The threshold values set for the qualification of bid is 75/100 for weight and all the bidders who score

below this score will be eliminated. The shortlisted bidders (bidders who scored at least 75% for the

Technical Functional Criteria) will qualify to be evaluated for Price

NO. technical criteria maximum

Points

1. Company experience

The bidder must provide a client reference letter of previous projects not older than 40

3 years or currently being undertaken for similar services. (July 2024 - current)

The letters must:

• Be on client letterhead.
• Be signed.
• Be dated or indicate period of service.
• Relate to similar services.

9.1 The bidder must ensure that it has the following minimum key personnel assigned to the project.

the specified qualifications, professional registrations, and minimum post-qualification experience:

9.2 The bidder shall utilise only the Key Personnel whose curricula vitae (CVs), qualifications, and

experience were submitted and evaluated as part of this bid. Any proposed changes to the approved

team must be submitted in writing and shall be subject to the prior written approval of SAMSA.

9.3 Any replacement personnel must meet or exceed the minimum qualification, professional registration,

and experience requirements as specified and evaluated in this bid.

9.4 The changes to staff members must meet the minimum criteria evaluated for this bid.

membership from the South African Institute of Marine Engineers and

Naval Architects (SAIMENA);

Experience

Minimum of 5 years of experience as a qualified and competent

proof of qualifications, professional registrations, and relevant

certifications for verification and approval.

The bidder must provide a signed and dated letter, on the bidder’s

official company letterhead, confirming either that:

1. a Marine Engineer individual has been outsourced/appointed

to perform the required services; or

2. a Marine Engineering company has been

outsourced/appointed to perform the required services; or

3. the bidder intends to outsource/appoint a suitably qualified

• Be on client letterhead.
• Be signed.
• Be dated or indicate period of service.
• Relate to similar services.

Scoring:

▪ Four (04) letters or more - (40 points)

▪ Three (03) letters - (30 points)

▪ Two (02) letters - (10 points)

▪ One (01) - (0 points)

Note

• SAMSA reserves the right to verify the information provided as part of the due

diligence.

• Where there are discrepancies between the information provided by the bidder

and the results obtained from the due diligence conducted, the bidder will receive a

score of zero for that criterion.

Team members experience 60

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members who will be assigned to the SAMSA project. The evaluation will be based

on the experience of the key personnel, as outlined below:

1. Project Team leader – 15 points

(experience in Irregular, Fruitless and wasteful investigation and assessments)

• Ten (10) years or above experience, Score = 10
• Below ten (10) years to ten (5) years’ experience, Score = 5
• Less than five (5) years’ experience OR irrelevant experience OR no proof

submitted, Score = 0

1.1 Qualifications – 5 points

• Ca(sa)
• Registered Auditor (RA)
• Honours in Forensic Accounting/Investigation

Non-Submission = 0 Points

2 Accounting Expert – 15 points

(experience in Irregular, Fruitless and wasteful investigation and assessments)

• Ten (10) years or above experience, Score = 10
• Below ten (10) years to ten (5) years’ experience, Score = 5
• Less than five (5) years’ experience OR irrelevant experience OR no proof

submitted, Score = 0

2.1 Qualifications – 5 points

• Ca(sa)
• Registered Auditor (RA)
• BCom Honours

Non-Submission = Score 0 Points

3 Forensic and Risk Expert – 15 points

(experience in forensic investigations)

• Ten (10) years or above experience, Score = 10
• Below ten (10) years to ten (5) years’ experience, Score = 5
• Less than five (5) years’ experience OR irrelevant experience OR no proof

submitted, Score = 0

3.1 Qualifications – 5 points

• Cfe
• ICFP accredited qualification
• BCom Forensic Accounting

Non-Submission = Score 0 Points

4 Technical Expert – 15 points

(experience in naval and Marine engineering)

• Ten (10) years or above experience, Score = 10

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• Below ten (10) years to ten (5) years’ experience, Score = 5
• Less than five (5) years’ experience OR irrelevant experience OR no proof

submitted, Score = 0

4.1 Qualifications – 5 points

reserves the right to verify the authenticity and accreditation status of all

qualifications submitted. Where a qualification was obtained outside South

recognition and equivalence on the National Qualifications Framework

(NQF). Qualifications that cannot be verified or, in the case of foreign

qualifications, are not accompanied by a SAQA evaluation certificate where

required, may not be considered for evaluation purposes.

• The CVs must include contactable references for the relevant experience.

• 1x ORIGINAL bid document, to be also used for contract signing.
• 1x copy of the original bid document
• 1x electronic copy (replica) of the original bid document in PDF (USB).

Bid documents must contain 1x original bid document ,1x copy of the original document, initialed on each

page thereof and signed where required (two separate envelopes: one for Pricing and the other for

technical document)

A digital version on USB/Memory stick (replica) containing the bid document and all other supporting

documents (fully submitted bid proposal with its attachments) must be provided of all tender

documentation within the bid envelope.

(Gcc)

Pricing Schedule PART 4 - To be submitted in a separate

envelope

2.19 Queries and clarifications

2.19.1 Any clarification required by a bidder regarding the meaning or interpretation of the Terms of

Reference, or any other aspect concerning the bid, is to be requested in writing (letter or e-mail).

identified and confirmed through internal or external processes within the stipulated period will form

part of the investigation and must be included in the scope of work and pricing considerations.

negligence, or persistent underperformance. Payment shall be made for the work completed to

SAMSA’s satisfaction.

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Part 4: pricing model

separate quotation on the bidder's official company letterhead. Where a separate quotation is submitted, it

must contain all the information, pricing components, quantities, hours, rates, and other details required in the

prescribed pricing schedule to enable a like-for-like comparison and evaluation.

pricing schedule where these are necessary to provide a complete and comprehensive price for the full scope

of the bid. Such additional items must be clearly identified and priced separately.

work and provide all information required in the prescribed pricing schedule. Where a bidder fails to provide

sufficient pricing information for the full scope of work, the bid may be regarded as incomplete and non-

responsive.

schedule and that contained in any separate quotation or supporting pricing document, the price contained in

the prescribed pricing schedule shall prevail, unless otherwise determined by SAMSA.

for the successful delivery of the full scope of work. No claims for additional costs arising from omissions in

the bidder's pricing submission will be accepted after bid closing.

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Part 5. Evaluation criteria

1.1 Legislative and regulatory framework

1.1.1 The evaluation of bids received will be conducted with accordance with the prescripts of the

Preferential Procurement Policy Framework Act 2000 (Act no.), its Regulations of 2022

and the evaluation criteria as stipulated in the specification/terms of reference and special

conditions of contract.

1.2 Phase 1: administrative requirements (pre-evaluation)

1.2.1 Phase one evaluation will include the following:

(i) Verify all declarations (SBD 4 – Declaration of interest);

(ii) Determine whether any Government official participated in the bidding process;

(iii) Verify whether all applicable forms have been signed;

(iv) Submission of the Tax certificate and the copy of the CSD;

(v) All bids will be evaluated in terms of functionality and preference point system which

comprises of the following:

Note: Failure to comply with the requirements assessed in Level 1 (governance), may lead to

disqualification of bids.

1.3. Phase 2 – mandatory requirement

Payment Terms: Payment terms may be negotiated with the successful bidder before awarding the bid.

2.5.2 SAMSA will pay the service provider for the service rendered in line with the contract. No additional

amounts will be payable by SAMSA to the contractor without prior approval of the additional scope

of work.

2.5.3 The service provider shall from time to time during

Tax Compliance Status will apply)

tax compliance status PIN

Central Supplier Database (CSD) must be provided

Central Supplier Database (CSD) proves non-compliant

power of attorney to bind the other party/parties in respect of

identify the Lead Partner, with the power of attorney to bind the other party/parties in respect of

B-BBEE Minimum Level: 1

B-BBEE Details: on the part of any Party in exercising any power or right

conferred on such Party in terms of this Agreement shall operate as a waiver of such power or right

nor shall any single or partial exercise of any such power or right under this Agreement.

2.9 Submitting of fraudulent documents

2.9.1 The bidder must declare any Partnership or JV arrangements when submitting the proposal.

2.9.2 All parties to the bid (JV or Partnership) must submit all the required returnable documents as per

the requirement of the tender.

2.9.3 A trust, consortium or joint venture must submit a consolidated B-BBEE certificate to indicate their

status level in line with the BBBEE Code of Good Practice. A copy of the joint venture/consortium

agreement must be included.

2.9.4 A trust, consortium or joint venture will qualify for points for their B-BBEE status level as an

unincorporated entity, provided that the entity submits its consolidated BBBEE scorecard as if it

were a group structure and that such a consolidated BBBEE scorecard is prepared for every

separate bid.

2.9.5 Bidders must submit concrete proof of the existence of joint ventures and/or consortium

arrangements. National Treasury will accept signed agreements as acceptable proof of the

existence of a joint venture and/or consortium arrangement.

2.9.6 The joint venture and/or consortium agreements must clearly set out the roles and responsibilities

of the Lead Partner and the joint venture and/or consortium party. The agreement must also clearly

identify the Lead Partner, with the power of attorney to bind the other party/parties in respect of

matters pertaining to the joint venture and/or consortium arrangement.

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2.10 Subcontracting after award of tender

2.10.1 A person awarded a contract may o

Maritime Safety Authority 146 Lunnon Road, Cnr Jan Shoba & Lunnon Road, Hillcrest,0183 and should

be deposited in the box located at the reception.

1.1. The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) was established on the 1st of April 1998 under

the SAMSA Act . The objectives of the Authority are:

• To ensure safety of life and property at sea;
• To prevent and combat pollution from ships in the marine environment; and
• To promote the

Republic’s maritime interests.

• Administration of the Merchant shipping (National Small Vessel Safety) Regulation, 2007, as

amended

(the Regulations). The Regulations extends SAMSA’s Core mandate to include inland waterways (only

waterways accessible to the public) within the Republic. That is to ensure boating safety on our waters.

• Implementing and executing the Long-Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) of vessels along

the South African coastline. The Long-Range vessels monitoring system assist in securing South

Africa’s coastal waters in the midst of the rising lawlessness at sea, with particular reference to the

worrying scourge of pirate attacks along the east coast of Africa.

SAMSA’s head office is based in Pretoria, while there are 8 other offices based along the South African

coastline.

work performed, including but not limited to timesheets, attendance registers, activity reports, meeting records,

progress reports, and any other documentation deemed relevant by SAMSA.

to perform the required services, should the bid be successful.

26 | P a g e

1.4 Phase 3 - functionality/technical evaluation

a) Bids will be evaluated strictly according to the bid evaluation criteria stipulated in the terms

of reference.

b) Bidders must, as part of their bid documents, submit supportive documentation for all

technical requirements as indicated hereunder.

c) Bidders will not rate themselves but need to ensure that all information is supplied as

required.

d) The Bid Evaluation Committee (BEC) will evaluate and score all responsive bids and will

verify all documents submitted by the bidders.

e) The BEC will individually evaluate the responses received against the following criteria as

set out below: each individual criterion on the score sheet using the following scale:

The threshold values set for the qualification of bid is 75/100 for weight and all the bidders who score

below this score will be eliminated. The shortlisted bidders (bidders who scored at least 75% for the

Technical Functional Criteria) will qualify to be evaluated for Price

Contractual terms include: confidentiality obligations, intellectual property vesting in SAMSA, no contractual commitment until a formal written agreement is executed, payment terms (30 days after valid invoice), warranties, waiver provisions, non-compliance with delivery terms, cancellation rights, collusion/fraud/corruption disqualification, fronting provisions, and prohibitions on restrictive practices under the Competition Act. The service provider must comply with POPIA. The contract duration is four (04) months, with a Service Level Agreement to be signed before commencement.

Special conditions: SAMSA reserves the right to accept or reject any submission in full or in part, and to suspend or cancel the process at any time without liability. The contract will be subject to the General Conditions of Contract (GCC) issued in accordance with Treasury Regulation 16A. Where special conditions conflict with general conditions, the general conditions prevail. Bids must be submitted only at the SAMSA Pretoria office by the specified date and time; no fax or email bids accepted. Bidders must provide tax compliance status PIN and proof of CSD registration. A certified B-BBEE certificate must be submitted. SAMSA may apply objective criteria under Section 2(1)(f) of the PPPFA. SAMSA may conduct pre-award due diligence on the recommended bidder. For panel appointments, work allocation follows SAMSA's supplier rotation methodology.

▪ Four (04) letters or more - (40 points)

▪ Three (03) letters - (30 points)

▪ Two (02) letters - (10 points)

▪ One (01) - (0 points)

Note

• SAMSA reserves the right to verify the information provided as part of the due

diligence.

• Where there are discrepancies between the information provided by the bidder

and the results obtained from the due diligence conducted, the bidder will receive a

score of zero for that criterion.

Team members experience 60

27 | P a g e

The bidder must provide detailed CVs and valid qualifications of the proposed team

members who will be assigned to the SAMSA project. The evaluation will be based

on the experience of the key personnel, as outlined below:

1. Project Team leader – 15 points

(experience in Irregular, Fruitless and wasteful investigation and assessments)

• Ten (10) years or above experience, Score = 10
• Below ten (10) years to ten (5) years’ experience, Score = 5
• Less than five (5) years’ experience OR irrelevant experience OR no proof

submitted, Score = 0

1.1 Qualifications – 5 points

Submit one of:

• Ca(sa)
• Registered Auditor (RA)
• Honours in Forensic Accounting/Investigation

Non-Submission = 0 Points

2 Accounting Expert – 15 points

(experience in Irregular, Fruitless and wasteful investigation and assessments)

• Ten (10) years or above experience, Score = 10
• Below ten (10) years to ten (5) years’ experience, Score = 5
• Less than five (5) years’ experience OR irrelevant experience OR no proof

submitted, Score = 0

2.1 Qualifications – 5 points

Submit one of:

• Ca(sa)
• Registered Auditor (RA)
• BCom Honours

Non-Submission = Score 0 Points

3 Forensic and Risk Expert – 15 points

(experience in forensic investigations)

• Ten (10) years or above experience, Score = 10
• Below ten (10) years to ten (5) years’ experience, Score = 5
• Less than five (5) years’ experience OR irrelevant experience OR no proof

submitted, Score = 0

3.1 Qualifications – 5 points

Submit one of:

• Cfe
• ICFP accredited qualification
• BCom Forensic Accounting

Non-Submission = Score 0 Points

4 Technical Expert – 15 points

(experience in naval and Marine engineering)

• Ten (10) years or above experience, Score = 10

28 | P a g e

• Below ten (10) years to ten (5) years’ experience, Score = 5
• Less than five (5) years’ experience OR irrelevant experience OR no proof

submitted, Score = 0

4.1 Qualifications – 5 points

Submit either:

• Marine Engineering Qualification
• Naval Architecture Qualification

Non-Submission = Score 0 Points

Note

• The bidder shall only make use of the Key Team member/s who’s

CVs/Reference/Qualifications were evaluated for this Bid. Any changes to

the team must be in writing and agreed with SAMSA.

• All qualifications submitted by bidders must be obtained from accredited and

recognised institutions and be verifiable through SAQA, the relevant Quality

Council, recognised verification agencies, or the issuing institution. SAMSA

reserves the right to verify the authenticity and accreditation status of all

qualifications submitted. Where a qualification was obtained outside South

Africa, a valid SAQA Certificate of Evaluation must be provided to confirm

recognition and equivalence on the National Qualifications Framework

(NQF). Qualifications that cannot be verified or, in the case of foreign

qualifications, are not accompanied by a SAQA evaluation certificate where

required, may not be considered for evaluation purposes.

• The CVs must include contactable references for the relevant experience.

Alternatively, it must be indicated in the CV that references will be provided

upon request.

• SAMSA reserves the right to verify all submitted credentials, including

contacting references as part of due diligence

• Where there are discrepancies between the information provided by the

bidder and the results obtained from the due diligence conducted, the bidder

will receive a score of zero for that criterion.

• Any change to the proposed Key Team Member/s post-award must be

submitted in writing for approval by SAMSA.

Non-compliance with any of the above requirements will result in the bid being deemed non-compliant and disqualified from

Further evaluation.

Samsa reserves the right to verify any information and documentation submitted.

29 | P a g e

1.5 Phase 4: evaluation criteria in terms of the preferential procurement

Regulations 2022 (above r50 million)

1. The following preference point systems are applicable to invitations to bid:

• The 80/20 system for requirements with a Rand value of up to R50 000 000 (all applicable taxes

included); and

• The 90/10 system for requirements with a Rand value above R50 000 000 (all applicable taxes

included).

2. Either the 90/10 or 80/20 preference point system will be applicable in this bid. The lowest/ highest

acceptable bid will be used to determine the accurate system once bids are received.

3. Points for this bid (even in the case of a bid for income-generating contracts) shall be awarded for:

(a) Price; and

(b) Specific Goals.

Points awarded for price

The 80/20 or 90/10 preference point systems

The preferential procurement point system applicable for this bid is:

Preferential Point

System Mark

80/20 x

A maximum of 80 or 90 points is allocated for price on the following basis:

80/20 or 90/10

or

Where

Ps = Points scored for price of bid under consideration

Pt = Price of bid under consideration

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