The Rural Electrification Fund addressed public criticism after a newspaper error sparked controversy about a catering contract. The Herald mistakenly published a tender award to Eat n Lick as USD 603,600 when the actual amount was ZWG 603,600. This catering service provided food and drinks for 5,000 attendees at a solar power plant opening ceremony in Chipinge District in November 2024. The contract supplied slicers, soft drinks, and bottled water for the community event celebrating the commissioning of a 200kW solar facility.
Citizens questioned the Fund's explanation on social media platforms. Critics argued that REF created confusion through poor communication rather than false information circulating online. Some users demanded clarification about whether other tender amounts used similar currency designations. The Fund maintained that procurement procedures followed proper legal requirements under public asset disposal regulations. Despite official clarification, many Zimbabweans expressed skepticism about the organization's transparency and professional standards regarding public contract announcements.
Citizens questioned the Fund's explanation on social media platforms. Critics argued that REF created confusion through poor communication rather than false information circulating online. Some users demanded clarification about whether other tender amounts used similar currency designations. The Fund maintained that procurement procedures followed proper legal requirements under public asset disposal regulations. Despite official clarification, many Zimbabweans expressed skepticism about the organization's transparency and professional standards regarding public contract announcements.
