MBABANE – Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accidents Fund (SMVAF) Chief Executive Officer, David Mfanimpela Myeni, has reportedly asked to leave the parastatal following an investigation into the procurement of a SAP-ERP system.
The probe, led by a South African consultant, found serious flaws in the procurement process, although no evidence was uncovered of irregularities in the actual use of funds. Sources claim the CEO was excluded from some stages of the procurement and did not intend to bypass procedures, with some insiders suggesting that the Board should also share accountability.
The investigation revealed that while the Board had approved E59 million for the project — with instructions that no more than E10 million be spent in the first phase — costs had escalated to about E42 million by last year without a progress report. The system’s performance reportedly fell short of expectations, triggering staff concerns in 2023 and prompting a whistleblower to allege breaches of procurement legislation and the Fund’s own internal policies.
Three executives — Myeni, Chief Financial Officer Martin Simelane, and Chief Operations Officer Innocent Dlamini — were engaged by the Board over possible disciplinary measures. While the CFO and COO are currently on special leave, Myeni is said to have requested a “smooth exit,” citing strained trust and relations. Unconfirmed reports suggest the other two executives may also be considering leaving.
Corporate Communications Manager Makhosi Magongo confirmed that the Board commissioned the investigation and is pursuing business continuity measures to minimise operational disruptions. He stressed that no one has been found guilty of misconduct at this stage and that the executives remain employees while engagements continue.
Myeni, appointed CEO in April 2020, took over from acting head Bonginkosi Max Mkhonta. His tenure saw the launch of the “Seamless Sincephetelo Strategy 20/24” to improve efficiency and financial performance. However, by 2024 the Fund’s claims liability had risen from E371 million in 2020 to E523 million, contributing to four consecutive years of losses.
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