MPUMALANGA – A forensic report commissioned by the board of the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) recommends disciplinary action against CEO Mduduzi Vilakazi over a series of alleged offences, including corruption and financial misconduct.
The investigation report, tabled by MEC for Economic Development and Tourism, Makhosazane Masilela, has found that there is a prima facie case against Vilakazi and several officials within the Agency, warranting the initiation of disciplinary proceedings.
Vilakazi is facing serious allegations, including financial misconduct, the irregular appointment of service providers, and non-compliance with regulations in the implementation of several projects. These include the upgrading of the Geotrail, compilation of the Integrated Management Plan (IMP), development of the Visitor Information Centre (VIC), and the installation of directional signage for the World Heritage Site.
“I was first alerted by concerned stakeholders, including landowners, about allegations of maladministration and corruption at the Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains Heritage Site, specifically regarding the appointment of service providers and the implementation of projects,” MEC Masilela told the media on Friday morning.
“I informed the MTPA Board of the allegations on 24 July 2024. The Board held a meeting on 26 July 2024, during which it resolved to place CEO Mr Mduduzi Vilakazi on precautionary suspension pending an investigation.”
Vilakazi was placed on precautionary suspension on August 5, 2024. The forensic report was subsequently submitted to the Board on May 19, 2025.
MEC Masilela welcomed the findings of the investigation, stating that disciplinary action was a vital step towards ensuring consequence management. She emphasised that the process must comply fully with legal prescripts, including the principles of audi alteram partem and natural justice, as enshrined in South African law. Asked about the cost of the investigation, Masilela said, “I can indicate that the cost is over R2 million. They’ve done a thorough investigation because they also had to visit the sites.”
“I expect the Board to expedite the disciplinary process involving the CEO and other implicated officials so the matter can be concluded without undue delay,” she added.
She also committed to keeping the public informed of the outcomes and findings once the disciplinary proceedings have been finalised.
When approached for comment by Highveld Chronicle, Vilakazi said he required time to study the findings before making a public statement. “We’re talking about findings I have not yet reviewed. I received the report this morning, so I need time to go through it before I can comment,” he said.
