A South African firm, linked to a crime figure’s wife, won a $200K government contract without qualifications, sparking a fraud probe.

The Madlanga Commission is investigating how Buena Vista Learning Academy, a company previously a shisanyama business, won a R3.4 million Ekurhuleni municipality tender for skills development despite lacking qualifications, registration, and a track record. The firm, linked to Tsakane Matlala, wife of alleged crime figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, submitted its bid just days after rebranding and securing a BEE certificate. Payments were made using Seta grants, raising concerns over oversight and potential fraud, with officials acknowledging serious irregularities. The probe continues into municipal procurement failures.