Overview of the pothole‑repair machines issue
What happened?
In 2021 the Department of Defence and Military Veterans bought 90 pothole‑repair machines for R27.8 million. The goal was to give military veterans skills and income‑generating opportunities through road‑maintenance work.
Why are the machines idle?
- SIU investigation: The Special Investigating Unit has the machines as evidence in an ongoing probe.
- No training or plan: Since the purchase, no veterans have been taught how to operate the equipment and no implementation strategy has been drawn up.
Minister’s response
Defence and Military Veterans Minister Angie Motshekga said it is too early to decide what to do with the machines while the SIU work continues.
Premature to act
She stressed that any action—whether using the machines or disposing of them—must wait until the investigation ends.
Possible options
- Road‑maintenance strategy: Develop a plan to put the machines to productive use fixing potholes.
- Disposal: Sell or scrap the equipment to recover funds, following National Treasury rules.
- Veteran focus: Whatever option is chosen will keep the interests of military veterans in mind.
Allegations of misuse
EFF MP Carl Niehaus claimed the machines were being illegally rented out to third parties, with some department officials allegedly profiting. He said he received whistleblower information and intended to share it with the minister. Niehaus also criticised the fact that, despite the procurement, no pothole‑repair projects have started and no veterans have been trained.
What’s next?
- Waiting for the SIU: The department will not ask for the machines’ release until the investigation is finished.
- Future steps: Once the probe concludes, the department will look at all viable options—reuse for road maintenance, disposal, or another approach—prioritising benefits for veterans.
Benefits for veterans
If the machines are eventually put to work, veterans could gain:
- Hands‑on training in operating heavy equipment.
- Opportunities to earn money through contracted road‑maintenance jobs.
- Improved local infrastructure that serves their communities.
Conclusion
The 90 pothole‑repair machines remain stuck in limbo because of an ongoing SIU investigation. While the department holds off on any action, it stresses that any future decision—whether to use the machines for road repairs or to sell them—will be made only after the probe ends and will aim to serve the best interests of military veterans. Until then, the equipment sits unused, highlighting the need for clearer oversight and faster resolution of such procurement matters.
