Improving Our Investment: Necessary Procurement Reform to Enhance SAPS's Ability to Combat Criminals
In a concerning development, questions have been raised about a R1,2-billion tender facilitated by SITA for the Western Cape Education Department, with tender irregularities detailed in a forensic report from Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr (CDH). This incident has sparked a wider debate about the management and performance of the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), particularly in relation to its role as the primary ICT service provider for the South African Police Service (SAPS).
The urgent need for SAPS to enhance their ICT capabilities is a significant concern, given the outdated state procurement policy that is enabling criminals to outpace police in the adoption of digital technology. Reports indicate that abalone poachers are using surveillance drones to evade arrest, highlighting the need for smarter policing in the fight against high-tech crime.
However, most police stations have little to show for years of upgrades and ICT investment. Despite enjoying a relatively large ICT budget compared with other government departments, law enforcement stakeholders say police stations and officers are still largely under-equipped. The SAPS ICT budget requires better oversight and implementation, according to the Cape Chamber.
The GTAC report, released three years ago, recommended a thorough assessment of SAP's ICT environment. Since then, concerns about high costs incurred for SITA services rendered have been flagged in the report. Most of the SAPS ICT budget is channelled through SITA, a move that is causing concern due to ongoing issues with SITA management and performance.
The Communications and digital technologies minister, Solly Malatsi, has appeared before parliament's communications committee to answer questions about SITA. While no direct information about a new specific supplier replacing SITA for SAPS has been provided, the need for a change is being advocated by some. The view that SITA is a lost cause is expressed by others, with private sector involvement being seen as the key to future success in enhancing SAPS ICT capabilities.
Allowing SAPS to benefit from private sector expertise through meaningful partnership and oversight may help make up for lost time in the fight against crime. With R2,845-billion set aside for technological advancements in the 2024/25 financial year, the government should consider ending the SITA monopoly as the SAPS technology service provider.
In conclusion, the ongoing issues with SITA and the underutilisation of ICT resources within SAPS are cause for concern. The need for improved oversight, better management, and potentially private sector involvement in SAPS ICT services is clear. As technology continues to evolve, ensuring that our law enforcement agencies are equipped to combat high-tech crime is paramount.
