Tender Summary: Service Provider to Clear Alien Invasive Plants

Objectives

The primary objective is to eradicate localized populations of the invasive alien plant Pueraria montana var lobata at designated sites (Kaapsehoop, Queens River Bridge, Schagen, Mud House, and Sappi Plantations). Early-stage removal aims to prevent further ecological spread, reduce long-term management costs, and support national biodiversity conservation targets.

Scope of Work

• Duration: Two financial years (2026/2027 and 2027/2028). Approximately 33 working days are allocated for the first year; the second year is contingent on budget approval and DFFE Environmental Programmes rates.
• Core Activities: Survey target localities, clear all listed invasive species, collect GPS and ecological data, and submit structured progress reports.
• Operational Flexibility: If clearing concludes ahead of schedule, additional surveying or biodiversity-related duties may be assigned to utilize remaining person-days. Conversely, catch-up plans may be mandated if project timelines are delayed.
• Quality Assurance: Operations are monitored by SANBI and landowners. Substandard clearing must be rectified within 30 days post-contract expiry at the contractor's expense.

Technical Requirements

• Team Composition: A minimum of 12 physically fit personnel, comprising a supervisor/team leader, 3–6 herbicide applicators, one driver, one Health & Safety representative, and two First Aiders.
• Local Beneficiaries: At least 60% of the workforce must originate from the target areas, supported by proof of residence.
• Compliance Documentation: Valid COIDA letter of good standing, public liability insurance (minimum R1,000,000), and certified copies of all relevant training certificates must be provided post-award but pre-commencement.
• Equipment & Transport: Contractor must supply PPE (overalls, respirators, chainsaw gear, reflector vests, goggles), field tools (chainsaws, ropes, ladders, rakes, spades, measuring tapes), herbicide application kits, and a fully stocked medical kit. Transport requires a roadworthy long-base bakkie and trailer meeting construction vehicle standards (canopy/labour railings, revolving orange lamp, secured benches with seatbelts, speed limit display).
• Data Management: Electronic data collection using GPS or equivalent devices with track logging. SANBI supplies datasheets, herbicides, adjuvants, and dyes.

Skills Requirements

• Supervisory Expertise: The day-to-day supervisor must hold a PCO certification and complete herbicide applicator training.
• Certified Personnel: All team members must possess valid certifications for First Aid, Health & Safety representation, and herbicide application where applicable.
• Proven Experience: Bidders must demonstrate 1–4 years of experience in clearing invasive species combined with GPS or equivalent data collection methods. Evidence must include company profiles and reference letters.
• Operational Competence: Team members must be physically capable of navigating rough terrain, adhering to strict health and safety protocols, and executing species-specific clearing and data collection methodologies.

Notes on Unusual or Complicated Terms

• Daily Wage & Person-Day Contract: Payment is strictly tied to actual working days completed rather than a fixed lump sum. Invoices are processed upon submission of original supporting documents, with payment guaranteed within 30 days.
• EPWP Reimbursement Model: Costs for wages, PPE, equipment, and transport are reimbursed according to standardized Expanded Public Works Programme rates set by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE). Contractors bid against these fixed operational rates.
• Preferential Procurement (80/20 System): Evaluation allocates 80 points to price and 20 points to specific goals, primarily targeting 100% black ownership and 100% female ownership. Claims are verified via the Central Supplier Database (CSD).
• Multiple Contract Appointments: SANBI reserves the right to award multiple contracts to a single bidder. Each awarded contract requires a fully independent team, equipment set, and resource allocation, regardless of shared corporate ownership.