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Forensic Audit for R500 Million OBP Graft

Dear Editor

The DA welcomes the decisive action being taken by Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen to finally institute a forensic audit following the uncovering of unspent and irregular spending of funds on a project of R500 million at Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP). OBP is a state-owned animal vaccine manufacturing entity whose primary mandate is to manufacture animal vaccines.

The DA stands with members of the agricultural community in raising our total dissatisfaction with OBP not fulfilling its mandate, which in turn leaves our country with a huge shortage of much needed vaccines.

During a meeting of the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture held at the end of July, OBP tried to portray a picture that everything was in order, however, on Tuesday the Auditor General (AG) addressed the Portfolio Committee on Agriculture and revealed that there was a large portion of a grant given to OBP in 2013 that was unspent and unaccounted for.

On receiving this information, the DA insisted that OBP reappear before the portfolio committee to account for the false assurances that they provided to the committee in July. On the request of the DA, the committee also unanimously decided to execute an oversight visit at OBP as soon as possible.

The AG furthermore highlighted that OBP is “not doing the basics” right when it comes to auditing standards. This emphasises the importance of the forensic audit that Minister Steenhuisen want to institute.

It is clear that something untoward is going on at OBP, and this investigation into OBP is therefore welcomed.This development is a crucial step toward restoring integrity and accountability within the sector. It confirms the DA’s commitment to root out corruption and poor management as well as our commitment to advocate for transparent and accountable governance.

With the DA in the Government of National Unity (GNU), citizens can rest assured that their interests are always at the forefront of our efforts.

Regards

Willie Aucamp MP
DA Spokesperson on Agriculture

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