The truth behind this “donation” is that the state-controlled Zimbabwe National Road Authority (ZINARA), which is funded by levies on fuel supplies and tolls on the main roads as well as vehicle license fees, went out to tender some months ago for the supply of graders for the Rural District Councils. The tender documents were published by the state-controlled National Tender Board and nearly 50 firms responded. Many commented at the peculiar specifications used in the documents at the time. The tender was awarded to Univern Enterprises (Pvt) Limited whose name had not appeared on the list of companies tendering for the contract.
Objections from several of the unsuccessful companies were referred to ZINARA, who never replied. When the equipment arrived in Zimbabwe it was from a Chinese company whose products are not well known here and for which there is no maintenance or spares back up. It is further estimated that the equipment, which will cost over $16 million dollars, is overpriced by as much as 100 per cent, clearly indicating the payment of significant inducements to those making the decisions on supply.
ZINARA is controlled by Minister of Transport Nicolas Goche, against who numerous allegations of corruption have been made in the past. The misuse of state funds in this way is common on the Zanu (PF) side of the GNU fence but they should at least have the decency to attribute the supply of this equipment to the institution that has nothing whatsoever to do with the Party or the President.
It is dishonest politicking and the diversion of funds away from the critical need for road repairs.
Post published in: News