Gijima has welcomed a Special Investigating Unit (SIU) probe into a department of land reform project. “We welcome this investigation to remove any internal or external doubt or innuendoes, which would impact on the reputation of the department of rural development and land reform, as well as Gijima,” the IT company said in a statement.
It said it wanted to clarify its position following a report in a Sunday newspaper.
The Sunday Independent reported that president Jacob Zuma had authorised the investigation into a R360m tender awarded to Gijima by the department. Gijima said that the company was not mentioned in the Government Gazette proclamation for the SIU probe.
“In the Government Gazette notification it states that the department of rural development and land reform and all its contracts are being investigated by the SIU. Gijima is not referenced in the Government Gazette, only project Vulindlela.”
The report implicated Gijima through its involvement in the project.
“The Sunday Independent as a result of the article is classifying Gijima with the same corruption allegations while the newspaper is very much aware of the true facts as embodied in the proclamation. Gijima with its executive leadership team adheres to strict corporate governance and tender procedures. Gijima’s executive team has at no time been implicated in any fraud or corruption activities at any level.”
The company and department were working to ensure that all checks and balances would be adhered to by the end of the project and that there was neither under- or overcharging for it. “We are quietly confident that we will be found in good order,” the company said. — Sapa