Objectives

The primary objective is to eradicate localized populations of the invasive alien plant species Harrisia pomanensis at designated sites in the Limpopo Province. Early intervention aims to prevent ecological spread, reduce long-term management costs, and support national biodiversity conservation mandates.

Scope of Work

• Survey & Clearing: Conduct field surveys, manually and chemically clear all targeted invasive vegetation, and collect prescribed ecological data.
• Duration: Two financial years (2026–2027 and 2027–2028). The initial phase requires approximately 46 working days, with subsequent periods contingent upon budget approval and official environmental programme rates.
• Monitoring & Rectification: Operations will be supervised by SANBI and landowners. Any substandard clearing must be remediated within 30 days post-contract at the contractor’s expense.
• Data Management: Capture GPS coordinates and ecological metrics using provided datasheets and electronic logging systems.

Technical Requirements

• Team Composition: A physically fit team of 12 personnel, comprising a supervisor/team leader, 3–6 herbicide applicators, a driver, one health and safety representative, and two first aiders. At least 60% of personnel must be sourced from local communities.
• Vehicles & Transport: A roadworthy long-base bakkie configured as a construction vehicle (fitted with canopy/labour railings, revolving orange lamp, secured benches with seatbelts, and displayed speed limits). A licensed trailer for transporting tools, herbicides, and cleared biomass is mandatory.
• Equipment & PPE: Contractor must supply chainsaws, ropes, harnesses, step ladders, hand tools (rakes, brooms, picks, hoes, spades), measuring tapes, herbicide application gear, absorbent materials, and fully stocked medical kits. Protective clothing includes overalls, herbicide respirators, aprons, reflector vests, and goggles.
• Regulatory Compliance: Valid COIDA certificate, public liability insurance covering a minimum of R1,000,000, certified first aid and health & safety credentials, and proof of local residence for beneficiaries.
• Training & Medical: Mandatory herbicide applicator training and pre-employment medical examinations. Costs for training and medical screenings are covered or reimbursed by the procuring entity.

Skills & Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum one to four years of proven experience in clearing invasive alien plants, preferably with integrated GPS or digital data collection capabilities.
• Supervisory Credentials: The day-to-day supervisor must hold relevant competency certification and verified herbicide applicator training.
• Certifications: All team members must possess valid, certified qualifications for first aid, health and safety representation, and herbicide application where applicable.
• Field Competence: Demonstrated ability to navigate rough terrain, operate specialized clearing equipment safely, and adhere to strict ecological data collection protocols.

Notes on Special Terms

• EPWP Rates: Expanded Public Works Programme rates dictate maximum allowable daily wages, PPE, equipment, and transport allowances. Bids must align with these government-stipulated financial ceilings to qualify.
• 80/20 Preference Point System: A procurement scoring model where 80 points are allocated to price competitiveness and 20 points to socio-economic goals (specifically targeting 100% black and/or female ownership, verified via the Central Supplier Database).
• Daily Milestone Contract: Payment is strictly tied to verified person-days worked. Uncompleted milestones may result in additional assigned duties, while early completion does not reduce payment obligations. This structure ensures accountability to actual field output rather than calendar time.