Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has announced a major policy shift, pledging to stop outsourcing government work through the tender system, which he says has been abused to benefit politically connected individuals.
“No more tenders. No one will stop me,” Lesufi declared, receiving strong applause during his address. He argued that the current system fuels corruption and diverts resources away from public needs.
Under the new approach, the provincial government will train and employ its own workers to handle services that were previously outsourced to private companies. This includes maintenance, cleaning, and other key functions often tied to lucrative contracts.
The plan builds on Gauteng’s *Nasi Ispani* program, which has already hired thousands of young people for community-based jobs. Lesufi said the next phase will focus on technical training so participants can take on more complex tasks—reducing reliance on external contractors.
[WATCH] "Government will no longer go on a tender…No one will stop me." Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi says the province is introducing a new phase of Nasi Ispani, which will provide training for people to do work that is currently being done through tenders. #Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/TcBYaYswsj
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) August 9, 2025
The announcement comes amid widespread criticism of tender-related corruption, with opposition parties accusing the ruling ANC of using government contracts to reward allies.
While some praise the move as a step toward accountability, others warn of legal and operational challenges. A policy analyst noted, “Fighting corruption is good, but the province must ensure this doesn’t disrupt services or break procurement rules.”
Lesufi, however, insists the change is critical. “We must act now to put residents first,” he said.