Objectives

The primary objective is the early detection and eradication of the invasive alien plant Harrisia balansae in the Groot Marico region of North West Province. By targeting small, localized populations before they reach full invasive potential, the project aims to prevent ecological spread, reduce long-term management costs, and contribute to national biodiversity conservation and restoration goals.

Scope

The service provider will execute a two-year contract spanning the 2026–2027 and 2027–2028 financial years. Core activities include:

• Surveying designated localities for target invasive species.
• Manually and chemically clearing all identified alien plants.
• Collecting structured ecological and spatial data using approved methods.
• Submitting regular progress reports and maintaining site records.

Field operations require a dedicated team of approximately 24 personnel, with a minimum of 60% sourced from local communities. The second year’s implementation is contingent upon budget approval and funding availability. All work will be monitored by SANBI and relevant landowners, with remedial clearing required within 30 days if standards are not met. Payment is structured as a daily wage contract based on verified person-days worked.

Technical Requirements

• Regulatory Compliance: Valid COIDA (Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act) certificate and Public Liability Insurance covering a minimum of R1,000,000.
• Transport: Roadworthy long-base bakkie meeting construction vehicle specifications (labor railings/canopy, orange revolving warning light, secured bench seating with seatbelts, speed limit display) plus a licensed trailer for equipment, herbicides, and cleared biomass.
• Equipment & PPE: Supply of chainsaws, ropes, harnesses, hand tools, herbicide application kits, absorbent materials, fully stocked medical kits, and protective gear (respirators, goggles, high-visibility vests).
• Data Management: Implementation of GPS-based data logging with continuous track recording and structured digital reporting.
• Health & Safety: Mandatory pre-employment medical screenings for all team members and certified Health & Safety Representatives plus First Aiders stationed on-site throughout the contract duration.
• Financial & Administrative: Full registration and compliance with the CSD (Central Supplier Database), submission of tax clearance documentation, and adherence to government-mandated EPWP wage and reimbursement rates for labor, equipment, and transport.

Skills Requirements

• Proven Experience: Minimum one to four years of documented experience clearing target invasive species alongside GPS-based data collection, supported by reference letters or appointment certificates.
• Supervisory Qualifications: A designated field supervisor holding valid Pesticide Control Officer (PCO) certification and accredited herbicide applicator training.
• Team Composition: A physically fit, multi-disciplinary workforce comprising qualified supervisors, herbicide applicators, general workers, drivers, health and safety representatives, and first aiders.
• Operational Competency: Demonstrated capacity to operate safely in rugged terrain, apply herbicides according to environmental health and safety protocols, and maintain accurate ecological records.
• Logistical Capacity: Ability to mobilize, train, and manage a 24-person workforce efficiently across remote sites while adhering to strict daily milestones.

Key Terms & Conditions

EPWP Rates: Government-prescribed wage and operational cost structures for public works contracts, ensuring fair labor practices and standardized reimbursement for equipment, transport, and catering.

PCO Certification: Pesticide Control Officer accreditation, legally required for individuals overseeing the storage, mixing, and application of chemical weed control agents in accordance with agricultural and environmental regulations.

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.

COIDA & CSD: Statutory employer liability insurance and South Africa’s centralized supplier verification registry, both mandatory for legal compliance, risk mitigation, and efficient payment processing.