Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to appoint a service provider responsible for implementing the amalgamation of all DARD entities into the Agricultural Development Agency (ADA) over a period of 24 months. This includes rationalizing entities, streamlining operations, and establishing a cohesive governance and operational framework to enhance service delivery, promote inclusive growth, and support the transformation of agriculture and agro-processing value chains.

Scope

The scope of services encompasses:

• Implementing and managing the ADA developmental programs.
• Coordinating and managing Agri hubs and value chain programs.
• Assisting in the implementation of mechanization programs.
• Managing strategic business units such as Ntinwe Tea Estate, Bhambana Abattoir, and Jozini Input Store.
• Ensuring effective functioning of the Makhathini Irrigation Scheme.
• Establishing and assessing business models, including transitioning funding models towards self-sufficiency.
• Conducting legal, financial, HR, and technical due diligence on all entities involved.
• Executing asset and liability transfers, formalizing governance, and developing organizational structures.
• Staff placement, training, and system integration for the new entity.

The scope also includes developing implementation plans, establishing transitional structures, and ensuring compliance with relevant legal and financial standards.

Technical Requirements

• Establishment of an Integration Project Committee and transitional structures.
• Development of detailed business cases, including financial modeling, business processes, and self-funding projections.
• Legal, financial, HR, and technical due diligence on all entities.
• Asset and liability transfer execution and formalization of governance systems.
• Finalization of financial reporting with audited statements.
• Staff training, system implementation, and launch of the integrated ADA.
• Adherence to legal, financial, and operational standards, including GRAP compliance and shareholder agreements.
• Provision of project management, risk mitigation, and contingency planning.

Skills Requirements

The successful service provider must demonstrate expertise and experience in the following areas:

• Project Management & Coordination: Ability to manage complex integration projects, establish committees, and oversee phased implementation.
• Legal & Financial Due Diligence: Experience in legal assessments, asset valuation, financial modeling, and compliance with relevant standards.
• Business Process Re-engineering: Skills in developing organizational structures, HR planning, and system integration.
• Technical Expertise: Knowledge in agriculture, irrigation schemes, agro-processing, and mechanization programs.
• Change Management & Stakeholder Engagement: Ability to manage staff placement, training, and stakeholder communication effectively.
• Risk & Contingency Planning: Capacity to identify risks, develop mitigation strategies, and manage contingencies.
• Reporting & Compliance: Proficiency in preparing detailed reports, financial statements, and ensuring adherence to GRAP and other standards.

Additionally, the bidder should possess relevant qualifications and a proven track record in managing similar large-scale organizational mergers or integrations within the public or private sector.