The work
In South Africa, independent news outlet Daily Maverick exposed major irregularities in a government contract worth tens of millions of dollars. The investigation flagged the use of fraudulent documents and political interference, forcing institutions to act and protecting public resources in a critical sector.
Daily Maverick investigated a $45 million government tender for medical oxygen generators, uncovering serious problems in the procurement process. A significant portion of the contract was awarded to a company with no accreditation or track record, relying on what appeared to be fraudulent documentation.
The reporting also revealed concerns about the involvement of senior government officials, including the head of the national health department.
Impact
The revelations triggered swift action. The health department withdrew from the project, while the public works department appointed PwC to conduct a forensic investigation. The Global Fund, which financed the project, announced that it was sending investigators to South Africa to examine the tender. In addition, the country’s elite anti-corruption unit, the Hawks, launched its own probe into the matter. Daily Maverick’s reporting not only prevented misuse of public funds but also helped safeguard the integrity of South Africa’s health system at a time when it is under intense pressure.