Mpumalanga’s R2 Million Laptop Purchase Sparks Outrage as Investigation Nears Conclusion

The Mpumalanga Department of Education is at the center of a heated controversy following the purchase of 22 high-end Dell XPS 16 laptops at a staggering total cost of R2 million. Each laptop reportedly cost R91,480, igniting public outrage and raising serious questions about government spending priorities and procurement practices.

Investigation Approaching Final Stages

Premier Mandla Ndlovu has confirmed that the investigation into this controversial acquisition is “at an advanced stage” and promised full transparency once it concludes. Speaking during an oral reply session at the Provincial Legislature, Ndlovu urged patience and fairness, emphasizing the importance of allowing the investigation to run its course without undue pressure.

“Because of the seriousness of this issue, once the investigation is finalised next week, we will inform the public,” said the Premier. He highlighted the 7th administration’s commitment to good governance and sound financial management, underscoring that all state acquisitions must be grounded in solid financial rationale.

The Purchase and Its Justification

The Department of Education confirmed that the laptops were purchased in December 2024 to equip employees within the Education Management Information Systems (EMIS) and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) teams. According to the department, other officials with operational roles requiring high-performance computing also received these devices.

In a formal statement, the department acknowledged the high cost but stressed the laptops’ critical role in managing Office 365 accounts, supporting schools, troubleshooting technical issues, and providing real-time support. Key tasks include resetting passwords via Active Directory, rebuilding accounts, and configuring multi-factor authentication.

Importantly, Education MEC Catherine Dlamini was not involved in the procurement process and did not receive any of the laptops, the department clarified. Dlamini herself confirmed she is still using a second-hand laptop issued when she took office in July 2024

Opposition Voices Concerns

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Mpumalanga has strongly criticized the expenditure. DA member Annerie Weber described the purchase as “shocking,” questioning the necessity of such expensive laptops for departmental use.

“The department went by a Polo, which they needed, but they actually bought a Rolls-Royce,” Weber said during an interview on Newzroom Afrika. She further highlighted that in a province with over 1,700 vacant positions and limited funds, spending R2 million on laptops is unacceptable.

Weber also raised concerns about compliance with State Information Technology Agency (SITA) guidelines, which are designed to ensure government equipment is certified and cost-effective. The DA has pledged to push for accountability and will seek confirmation on whether the procurement adhered to SITA standards and met the department’s actual needs.

What’s Next?

The final report from the investigation is expected to be released in the coming week. As the province awaits clarity, this episode serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in balancing technological needs with responsible public spending.