Pikitup, the City of Johannesburg’s waste management entity, is currently implementing an aggressive transformation and turnaround strategy “which involves large-scale improvements in all areas of governance and operations efficiency across its business,” according to a statement released by Pikitup Spokesperson and General Manager: Communication and Stakeholder Management, Desiree Ntshingila on Tuesday 3 September.

“In light of the recent media coverage with respect to matters at Pikitup and in particular to the awarding of the Yellow Plant Aqua Tender , the Pikitup Board is resolute in its quest to ensure good governance and a well-run state institution of the highest integrity.

“The Board will take further action that is necessary to ensure that it promotes compliance with the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA) and relevant regulatory frameworks.

“However, in the public’s interest and to demonstrate its commitment to ensuring the highest ethical standards and conduct within the organization and with respect to its stakeholders, the Board is able to confirm that the matter was reported to the Hawks in August 2011 and the Hawks together with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) will be responsible for taking the matter forward. The Board has also resolved to institute an independent legal review of the process and the awarding of the Yellow Plant Aqua Tender,” said Ntshingila.

Lastly, Ntshingila on behalf of PIKITUP made an appeal to any member of the public or internal stakeholders, including employees of Pikitup, who may have specific information relating to the Yellow plant Aqua tender award to cooperate with the Pikitup Board of Directors and forward such information to the office of the City Manager within the City of Johannesburg.