The Mpumalanga Government says it has recovered nearly R700 000 from a service provider implicated in the controversial 22 laptops tender, reports The Citizen.

The scandal emerged in 2025 when a whistle-blower exposed irregularities regarding the Mpumalanga Department of Education’s purchase of 22 laptops, each costing nearly R100 000.

A subsequent investigation found significant flaws in the procurement process. The probe also revealed the supplier failed to meet the agreed specifications, delivering laptops of lower quality than those contracted and paid for.

Furthermore, the investigation highlighted instances of misrepresentation and potential fraud within the procurement process.

Mpumalanga Premier Mandla Ndlovu confirmed the outstanding R170 000 is expected to be paid by the end of January.

The provincial government further indicated that the disciplinary process involving Mpumalanga Education’s head of department, Lucy Moyane, has concluded following her suspension.

Moyane faced five charges but was found guilty only of negligence in approving the tender recommendation. She was issued a written warning as a sanction and is expected to resume her duties today.

The tender investigation has also led to disciplinary proceedings against six other departmental employees.

While one employee had charges withdrawn due to insufficient evidence, the deputy director of ICT resigned immediately after being served with charges.

Three officials are undergoing disciplinary hearings, and one employee’s case has been suspended because of litigation initiated against the department.

In addition, lifestyle audits of all implicated officials were conducted by an external service provider, with the resulting report indicating no material findings.

Full report in The Citizen