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As controversies continue to rock the South African gambling scene, the chief strategic advisor of the National Gambling Board, Caroline Kongwa, has announced her resignation following the release of forensic audits.
Kongwa, who held her position for six years, stepped down earlier this month after learning about the findings of an independent audit conducted by TSU Investigation Services. The audit reveals significant issues regarding the performance bonuses awarded to her during her tenure.
The firm noted that these bonuses did not receive the necessary approvals according to the NGB’s performance management policy, categorizing them as irregular expenditures. It also flagged expenses related to Kongwa’s international travel, deeming them similarly irregular.
Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Considering Next Line of Action
Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau is evaluating his next steps following the findings from the TSU investigation. In response to a series of written questions from Democratic Alliance MP Toby Chance, Tau confirmed that he has appointed legal representation to guide him through the situation.
He stated, “Following receipt of the investigation report, the minister has appointed legal representation to advise him on the way forward. The minister is currently engaging with legal counsel on the course of action.”
Kongwa’s History with the NGB
The context of this situation dates back to when Kongwa was appointed joint administrator alongside Tumelo Baleni after the NGB’s CEO resigned in April 2014. This followed a forensic audit that led to the NGB being placed under administration and its board suspended by former minister Rob Davies due to mismanagement and wasteful expenditure.
Since then, the board has been without members for 11 years, as all previous board members resigned and Baleni left in 2015.
In another response to Chance, Tau noted, “The process of selecting members to serve on the National Gambling Board is underway and has not yet been concluded.”
R3.4 Million Was Paid to Kongwa in 2024
According to GroundUp, Kongwa received a total compensation of R3.4 million in 2024, which included her salary, bonuses, and other benefits. This amount marks an increase of R800,000 compared to her earnings in 2023.
To put this in perspective, South Africa’s deputy president earned R3.16 million that same year, while ministers received R2.68 million, not counting additional perks.
Kongwa’s salary for 2024 was R2.5 million. She also received a 13th cheque amounting to R212,825 and a performance bonus of R510,781. In contrast, her earnings in 2023 totaled R2.6 million, which included a 13th cheque of R196,945 and performance bonuses that added up to R212,283.
Kongwa Claims Reasons for Resignation Are Personal
In a statement to GroundUp, Caroline Kongwa confirmed her resignation but emphasised that her reasons are personal, private, and not for public consumption.
She urged that further inquiries be directed to the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) and the National Gambling Board for clarification on official matters.
“The DTIC and NGB should and are more than capable and accountable to answer for their own statements and deal with official Government business which they make public or report to Parliament,” Kongwa noted.
She concluded her remarks by expressing her inability to provide additional information and warned that she would reserve her rights to take legal action if any misrepresentations were made.
Source: GroundUp
Note: This post is intended for informational purposes only and does not speculate or editorialize beyond the verified content provided in the source.
