Tender Summary: Service Provider for Invasive Clearing Alien Plants in Hogsback

Objectives

The primary objective is to appoint a qualified service provider to conduct early-stage eradication of targeted invasive alien plant species (Ulex Europaeus and Cytisus scoparius) in the Hogsback region. Timely intervention aims to prevent widespread ecological damage, reduce long-term control costs, and support national biodiversity conservation goals by eliminating localized populations before they reach full invasive potential.

Scope

• Duration: Two financial years (2026–2027 and 2027–2028). Approximately 32 workdays are allocated for the first year; the second year remains contingent upon budget approval and funding availability.
• Core Activities: Survey designated localities, manually and chemically clear specified alien vegetation, and collect structured ecological data using GPS tracking.
• Team & Operations: An 11-person team operating Monday to Friday, eight hours daily. The contractor supplies all personnel, equipment, protective gear, transport, and administrative materials.
• Quality Control: Operations are monitored by SANBI and landowners. Substandard clearing must be rectified within 30 days post-contract at no additional cost.
• Payment Structure: Milestone-driven, calculated strictly on verified person-days worked. Additional duties may be assigned if milestones are completed ahead of schedule.

Technical Requirements

• Statutory Compliance: Valid COIDA letter of good standing, public liability insurance (minimum R1,000,000), and active Central Supplier Database (CSD) registration.
• Transport Specifications: A roadworthy long-base bakkie and licensed trailer meeting construction vehicle standards, including revolving warning lamps, secured benches with seatbelts, and displayed speed limits.
• Equipment & PPE: All field tools, chainsaws, herbicide application gear, absorbent materials, medical kits, and personal protective equipment must comply with Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) guidelines. Reimbursement follows stipulated EPWP rates.
• Local Beneficiaries: At least 60% of team members must be residents of the target area, with verifiable proof of address submitted pre-contract.
• Diversity Targets: Team composition must meet prescribed thresholds for female participation, youth employment, and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
• Documentation: Completed SBD forms, company profile with reference letters, certified staff qualifications, proof of residence, and a fully populated team structure table.

Skills Requirements

• Supervision: The day-to-day supervisor must hold relevant competency certifications and herbicide application training, supported by a detailed curriculum vitae.
• Certifications: All team members must possess valid credentials as herbicide applicators, health and safety representatives, and first aiders.
• Experience: Demonstrated experience (1–4 years, depending on scoring) in invasive species clearing combined with accurate GPS-based data collection. Reference letters or appointment letters are required.
• Operational Competence: Physical fitness for rugged terrain, proficiency in species-specific removal techniques, track logging for spatial data, and safe chemical handling protocols.
• Training: SANBI will provide specialized herbicide applicator training prior to commencement, but baseline technical competence and physical readiness are mandatory.

Key Terms Explained

• EPWP (Expanded Public Works Programme): A South African government framework that standardizes wages, equipment allowances, and labor conditions for public works contracts, emphasizing job creation, skills development, and community economic participation.
• COIDA: The Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act. It mandates employer contributions to a state fund covering workplace injuries and occupational illnesses; a valid certificate is compulsory for contract execution.
• 80/20 Preference Point System: A procurement evaluation model allocating 80 points to competitive pricing and 20 points to socio-economic transformation goals, including black ownership, female leadership, youth employment, and disability inclusion.
• CSD (Central Supplier Database): The national procurement registry used to verify bidder legitimacy, tax compliance, B-BBEE status, and preference point eligibility.