Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to engage a qualified and experienced accounting firm to provide comprehensive accounting services for Ndlambe Municipality. The services include the preparation and finalization of annual financial statements (AFS) in compliance with GRAP standards, supporting the municipality in achieving unqualified audit opinions, and ensuring timely submission of financial reports to the Auditor-General. The contract aims to enhance financial reporting quality, strengthen internal controls, and support the municipality's compliance and transparency goals over a three-year period.

Scope

The scope of work encompasses:

• Provision of accounting services related to the preparation and finalization of the municipality’s annual financial statements for the period 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2029.
• Assistance with compliance to legislative and regulatory requirements, including GRAP standards.
• Support in drafting responses to audit queries and issues raised by the Auditor-General.
• Ensuring the availability of a qualified consultant (CA (SA)) with specific experience in municipal financial reporting and GRAP compliance.
• Delivering structured training to municipal officials on AFS compliance and submission processes (minimum of two sessions per annum).
• Assessment and improvement of internal controls and processes related to financial reporting.
• Preparation of supporting reconciliations, analyses, journals, and other documentation prior to submission.
• Regular reporting on audit processes, deficiencies, and corrective actions.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements include:

• Provision of a qualified CA (SA) with at least five years’ experience in high-level use of Caseware Working Papers (GRAP) module and Munsoft Financial System.
• Proven track record of assisting municipalities in achieving unqualified audit opinions, supported by reference letters and audit reports.
• Availability of the proposed consultant for the full AFS preparation cycle, including the month of August each year.
• Delivery of structured training sessions on AFS compliance, methodologies, and audit response processes.
• Submission of detailed reports after each audit period, highlighting deficiencies, risks, and recommendations.
• Assessment and support in strengthening internal controls and compliance environment.
• Adherence to the specified timelines for draft and final AFS submissions.
• Compliance with all applicable legislation, policies, and contractual conditions.

Skills Requirements

The successful bidder must demonstrate:

• Certification as a Chartered Accountant (CA (SA)) with valid registration.
• Minimum of five years’ hands-on experience with GRAP-compliant financial statements and the use of Caseware Working Papers.
• Experience in assisting municipalities with financial systems, particularly Munsoft Financial System.
• Proven ability to deliver high-quality, unqualified audit opinions over multiple consecutive years.
• Capacity to provide structured training and transfer skills to municipal officials.
• Strong internal control assessment and process improvement skills.
• Excellent report writing, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to meet strict deadlines and deliver accurate, supported financial statements.