Africa Platinum Group Metals (Pty) Ltd has raised concerns regarding the integrity and transparency of procurement processes at Samancor, calling for clarity on allegations that contractor opportunities may be awarded outside established procurement procedures.
In a formal letter addressed to the management and board of Samancor, dated 8 October 2026, Africa Platinum Group Metals requested clarification and an investigation into allegations made by Mr Benji Maponya during a podcast published on the same date. The allegations concern the possible awarding of contractor opportunities without the proper procurement procedures being followed.
The company emphasised that its concerns are rooted in the importance of fair competition, transparent business practices and equal access to commercial opportunities within South Africa’s mining industry.
Questions over procurement transparency
Africa Platinum Group Metals noted that Samancor has directed contractors and suppliers to use the Coupa Supplier Portal (CSP) to participate in procurement processes. This raises an important question: are all procurement opportunities being managed in accordance with the prescribed procedures, and are registered suppliers receiving fair and equal consideration?
The company maintains that any allegations suggesting that contracts may be awarded outside established procurement channels deserve serious and impartial scrutiny. However, the allegations have not been independently verified, and no conclusion regarding wrongdoing should be drawn before the relevant facts have been established.
A call for accountability
Africa Platinum Group Metals has requested that Samancor clarify the safeguards in place to ensure that all contractors and suppliers have equal opportunities to compete for available work.
The company has also called for appropriate action if an investigation establishes that any individuals have acted contrary to Samancor’s procurement policies and procedures.
Among the key issues requiring clarification are whether procurement opportunities are consistently advertised through the appropriate channels, whether supplier registrations are assessed fairly, and whether decisions to award contracts are supported by transparent and accountable processes.
These questions are particularly important in an industry where access to procurement opportunities can contribute to business growth, job creation and the development of smaller enterprises.
Supporting local businesses and economic participation
For emerging companies and small businesses seeking to participate in the mining value chain, transparent procurement processes are essential. Fair access to opportunities can help local enterprises build capacity, create employment and establish sustainable partnerships with major mining companies.
Africa Platinum Group Metals believes that suppliers should be evaluated on legitimate business criteria, including capability, compliance, safety standards, experience and competitive pricing.
The company’s position highlights the importance of maintaining confidence in procurement systems and ensuring that all eligible businesses have a fair opportunity to participate.
Awaiting clarification from Samancor
Africa Platinum Group Metals has requested a clear response from Samancor regarding its procurement controls and the measures used to ensure compliance with established procedures.
At the time of writing, no response from Samancor has been included in the information available for this report. The company’s position on the allegations therefore remains unconfirmed.
The matter underscores the importance of transparency, due process and accountability in South Africa’s mining sector. Any investigation should be conducted fairly, with all relevant parties given an opportunity to provide evidence and respond to the concerns raised.
Africa Platinum Group Metals (Pty) Ltd maintains that procurement integrity is essential to building trust, encouraging meaningful participation by local businesses and promoting sustainable economic growth across the mining industry.
