Objectives

The primary objective is to appoint a qualified service provider to conduct targeted eradication and clearing of invasive alien plant populations, specifically Cylindropuntia pallida, at the Barkley West-Smith Mine site in the Northern Cape. Early intervention aims to prevent ecological spread, reduce long-term management costs, and contribute to national biodiversity conservation targets.

Scope of Work

• Survey & Clearing: Conduct field surveys of designated localities, identify target invasive species, and execute complete clearing operations following species-specific protocols.
• Data Collection: Record precise GPS coordinates, maintain digital track logs, and submit structured datasheets detailing population sizes and clearing progress.
• Contract Duration: Two financial years (2026–2027 and 2027–2028). The initial phase requires 50 working days between November 2026 and March 2027. Subsequent phases depend on budget approval and prescribed environmental programme rates.
• Quality Assurance: Operations will be monitored by SANBI and landowners. Inadequate clearing must be rectified within 30 days post-contract expiry at no additional cost.
• Schedule Flexibility: If milestones are completed ahead of schedule, additional surveying or clearing duties may be assigned to utilise remaining person-days.

Technical Requirements

• Team Composition: A physically fit team of 10 personnel, comprising a supervisor/team leader, four herbicide applicators, one driver, two health and safety representatives, and two first aiders. At least 60% of the workforce must be sourced from local communities.
• Vehicles & Transport: A roadworthy long-base bakkie meeting construction vehicle standards (fitted with canopy/labour railings, revolving orange lamp, secured benches with seatbelts, and displayed speed limits). A licensed trailer for transporting tools, herbicides, and cleared biomass.
• Equipment & PPE: Chainsaws, ropes, harnesses, ladders, hand tools, measuring tapes, herbicide application gear, and fully stocked medical kits. Mandatory PPE includes overalls, herbicide respirators, chainsaw protection, aprons, reflector vests, and goggles.
• Compliance & Documentation: Central Supplier Database (CSD) registration, completed SBD forms, preference points claim form, company profile with verifiable references, certified identity documents, and proof of local residence for team members.
• Insurance &> Safety Certificates: Valid COIDA certificate and public liability insurance (minimum R1,000,000) are mandatory before contract commencement.
• Training & Medical: Mandatory pre-medical examinations for all team members. Herbicide applicator training will be provided by the procuring entity.

Skills & Qualifications

• Supervisory Expertise: The day-to-day supervisor must hold a Professional Certification Officer (PCO) qualification and valid herbicide applicator certification.
• Field Experience: Proven experience (1–4 years) in clearing invasive alien plants, preferably combined with GPS or digital data collection capabilities. Applicants must submit appointment letters or reference letters verifying past performance.
• Certifications: All herbicide applicators, health and safety representatives, and first aiders must possess current, valid certifications. Drivers must hold appropriate licences.
• Operational Competence: Ability to navigate rough terrain, operate specialised clearing machinery safely, adhere to strict environmental protocols, and accurately record biodiversity data using electronic logging systems.

Notes on Unusual or Complicated Terms

• EPWP Rates: Expanded Public Works Programme rates are government-prescribed wage and allowance structures for labour-intensive conservation projects. They dictate daily reimbursement caps for wages, PPE, equipment, transport, and catering, ensuring compliance with national job creation and economic inclusion mandates.
• 80/20 Preference Point System: A procurement evaluation model where 80 points are awarded based on competitive pricing, and 20 points are allocated for socio-economic goals, specifically prioritising 100% black-owned and 100% female-owned enterprises.
• Person-Day Contract Model: Unlike fixed-price contracts, payment is strictly calculated based on verified working days and milestone achievements. Invoices require original supporting documentation, and payments are processed within 30 days of submission.