President Cyril Ramaphosa has authorised the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to investigate six projects involving the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality and the Buffalo City Metropolitan Development Agency (BCMDA).
The investigation follows Proclamation 350 of 2026, which was signed by the President on 18 September 2026.
The SIU will investigate allegations of serious maladministration, improper conduct and possible unlawful spending of public money.
Projects under investigation
The investigation covers several projects and contracts in Buffalo City.
These include the Mdantsane NU2 Swimming Pool Project.
The SIU will also examine the appointment of First New Generation Trading (Pty) Ltd for the demolition of existing walls.
Another matter involves Lefito Trading, trading as Kuyasa Electrical Contractors. The company was appointed for the removal of the Donkin wall and the installation of palisade fencing.
The investigation will also cover two contracts linked to the Water World Project. These involve consulting engineering services and the appointment of the main contractor.
What the SIU will investigate
The SIU will examine the conduct of officials from Buffalo City Metro and the BCMDA.
Investigators will determine whether officials acted improperly or unlawfully. They will also examine whether public money or property was unlawfully spent or used.
The unit will further assess whether the procurement processes followed the law and whether contracts and payments were fair, competitive, transparent and cost-effective.
The investigation covers conduct dating from 1 January 2016 to 18 September 2026.
Background
The latest investigation comes after earlier SIU work involving Buffalo City.
In February 2026, the SIU briefed Parliament on investigations involving Buffalo City Metro. The briefing included matters linked to the Mdantsane NU2 Swimming Pool Project and the Water World Fun Park Project.
The SIU has also previously investigated other matters involving the municipality, including procurement-related allegations.
The new proclamation gives the SIU a formal mandate to investigate the six projects listed in the President’s proclamation.
Possible recovery of public funds
If the investigation finds that the State or an affected institution suffered financial losses, the SIU can take steps to recover the money.
If investigators uncover evidence of criminal conduct, the matter can also be referred to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action.
