Lobamba, Parliament House of Assembly, 18 September, 2024
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) faced scrutiny over the disbursement of COVID-19 grants intended to support individuals and organizations affected by the pandemic. This transpired during the entity’s appearance before the PAC yesterday. Concerns have been raised regarding the selection criteria employed in the allocation of these funds, particularly as discrepancies emerged with reports of some beneficiaries receiving multiple payments while others who were arguably more deserving were overlooked entirely. This investigation seeks to unravel the complexities behind NDMA's grant distribution process, examining how decisions were made, the transparency of the selection criteria, and the implications of these inconsistencies on public trust in disaster management efforts during a critical time.
Chairperson of the PAC Hon. Madala Mhlanga (C) officially calling the session to order, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in government financial operations.
Principal Secretary in the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office Siboniso Nkambule (L) with officials as they appeared before the PAC to answer questions.
Auditor General Timothy Matsebula (L) stressing a point during the PAC Sitting.