Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to appoint a service provider to deliver interpreting and translation services for Council meetings and workshops within the Breede Valley Municipal area. The services are to be provided on an "as-and-when" basis over a period of 12 months, from July 2026 to June 2027, ensuring effective communication in multiple languages including English, Afrikaans, isiXhosa, and Sign Language (optional).

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Providing interpreting services at various municipal offices and locations within Breede Valley.
• Translation from Afrikaans to English and isiXhosa, and vice versa.
• Interpreting services for council meetings, training sessions, workshops, and other events.
• Consecutive interpreting for meetings and workshops.
• Simultaneous interpreting during council meetings.
• Provision for own travel costs by service providers.
• Services may be requested with 48 hours' notice, or in urgent cases, within 24 hours or less, including after hours and weekends.
• Optional Sign Language interpreting services, considered an added advantage.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements include:

• Provision of interpreters with relevant experience in local government terminology.
• Interpretation types: consecutive and simultaneous interpreting.
• Ability to handle short-notice requests and variable durations (from 1 hour to full day).
• Inclusion of CVs for each sub-contractor if an agency is bidding.
• Adherence to confidentiality and professional standards.
• Provision of interpretation services in multiple languages as specified.
• Compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations.

Skills Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate:

• At least two (2) years of relevant interpreting experience.
• Proven track record in providing interpretation services, especially in a government or formal meeting context.
• Strong language proficiency in English, Afrikaans, isiXhosa, and Sign Language (optional).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle urgent requests.
• Professional conduct and confidentiality.
• Capability to provide interpreters for both consecutive and simultaneous interpreting.