The Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) has issued a Request for Quotation (QCTO RFQ 24/2026) for the provision of Microsoft Azure Cloud Hosting and Managed Support Services. This strategic procurement initiative aims to modernize the council’s IT infrastructure, ensuring secure, scalable, and highly available cloud environments to support its national mandate of overseeing trades and occupations in South Africa.
Scope of Services
The appointed service provider will deliver comprehensive cloud infrastructure and support solutions. Key deliverables include:
- Provisioning and management of Microsoft Azure cloud hosting environments.
- Implementation, ongoing maintenance, and managed support services for cloud infrastructure.
- Ensuring high availability, robust data security, and seamless integration with existing QCTO systems.
- Providing an itemized quotation with specific mention of any exclusions, inclusive of VAT for registered suppliers.
Mandatory Compliance Requirements
To be considered responsive, bidders must submit a stringent compliance package demonstrating technical and operational legitimacy. Essential documentation includes:
- A recent Central Supplier Database (CSD) registration report reflecting an active MAAA status.
- A current SARS Tax Compliance Status PIN.
- A valid B-BBEE certificate or sworn affidavit.
- Duly completed Standard Bidding Documents (SBD 4 and SBD 6.1).
- A valid Bank Confirmation Letter.
- An official Microsoft Partner letter or certificate confirming the bidder’s Microsoft Partner status.
- A minimum of three (3) previous reference letters for similar cloud hosting, implementation, maintenance, or managed support services (dated, signed, on client letterhead, with contactable details).
Evaluation Criteria
Quotations will be evaluated based on strict responsiveness criteria. Submissions must be received on or before the closing date, fully completed, and signed. The evaluation will prioritize bidders who demonstrate proven company experience through verifiable references, technical capability via Microsoft Partner accreditation, and competitive, fully inclusive pricing. Non-compliance with any mandatory requirement will result in immediate disqualification.
Related opportunity: City of Cape Town Video Conferencing Systems Tender 2026
Submission Guidelines
There will be no briefing session for this procurement. In accordance with the special conditions, all submissions must be sent exclusively via email to RFQ@qcto.org.za. The email must include the quotation and all required supporting documents. The strict closing time is 11:00 on Monday, 02 November 2026. Late, faxed, or physically delivered submissions will not be accepted. For technical inquiries regarding the Terms of Reference, contact Hangwelani Tshifaro at Tshifaro.h@qcto.org.za. For general SCM inquiries, contact T Makondo at SCM@qcto.org.za or 012-003-5609.
Document Downloads
Prospective bidders can access the complete RFQ documentation and required forms free of charge via the official National Treasury eTender portal:
- TOR Provisioning of Microsoft Azure Cloud Infrastructure
- RFQ – Microsoft Azure Cloud Hosting
- SBD 6.1 Preference Points Claim Form
- Standard Bidding Document (SBD) 4
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