Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to appoint a panel of qualified service providers to support the Port St Johns Municipality in enhancing financial management and governance over a period of 36 months. The support includes assistance with GRAP-compliant financial statements, asset register updates, financial system review, governance oversight, internal audit support, and related financial and accounting services. The aim is to ensure reliable, resourceful, and timely support that facilitates good governance, smooth audit processes, and institutionalization of internal controls, while also transferring skills to municipal staff.

Scope

The scope encompasses:

• Provision of technical support on GRAP-compliant Annual Financial Statements (AFS).
• Maintenance and updates of the Fixed Assets Register.
• Review of financial transactions within the Municipal Financial Management System and related subsystems.
• Governance and oversight review, including training and internal audit support.
• Assistance with compliance and internal controls.
• Support on other financial and accounting matters as identified by the municipality.
• The scope will be determined based on specific needs at any given time, with the possibility of extending the panel for up to 24 additional months without open bidding.

Technical Requirements

Technical requirements include:

• Expertise in Municipal Standard Chart of Accounts (mSCOA) compliance.
• Ability to produce and review GRAP-compliant financial statements and disclosures.
• Capability to maintain and update Asset Registers in accordance with GRAP standards and regulations.
• Provision of qualified personnel with relevant experience, including Chartered Accountants (SAICA), AGA (SA), or equivalent, with a minimum of 5 years senior financial management experience.
• Experience in municipal financial systems, budgeting, and audit processes.
• Provision of hourly rates for various professional roles, including accountants, engineers, technologists, and technical support staff.
• Adherence to procurement, reporting, and contractual standards as specified in the tender documentation.

Skills Requirements

The tender mandates the following skills and qualifications:

• Degree in Accounting Science, Financial Management, Taxation, SCM, or Logistics Management.
• Minimum of 5 years of senior financial management experience in the private or public sector.
• Proven experience in municipal financial reporting, including preparation of AFS and compliance with GRAP and mSCOA standards.
• Chartered Accountants (SAICA) or equivalent with at least 15 years of experience, including experience with municipal audits and financial systems.
• Experience in budget management, internal controls, and governance oversight.
• Personnel with relevant degrees and professional certifications, including CVs and proof of experience.
• Ability to provide comprehensive methodology and approach addressing financial management, asset management, and internal controls.