The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has published an open Request for Bid (RFB) for the appointment of a travel management agency to handle its corporate travel requirements. The tender, designated Bid SAWS-456/26, seeks a strategic partner to provide comprehensive travel management services for a period of 36 months.
Tender Overview
The RFB aims to secure a travel management company that can deliver consistent, reliable services while achieving significant cost savings without compromising traveller satisfaction. Bids must be submitted electronically via the e-Tender portal by 16 September 2026 at 11:00 AM. A non-compulsory virtual briefing session is scheduled for 01 September 2026 at 10:00 AM via Microsoft Teams.
Scope of Work
The appointed Travel Management Company (TMC) will manage all aspects of travel for SAWS employees, contractors, and consultants travelling on official business. Key responsibilities include:
- Managing reservations for air travel, accommodation, and car rentals.
- Handling after-hours and emergency services (17:00 to 08:00 weekdays, 24/7 on weekends and public holidays).
- Operating an Online Travel Booking System with integrated approval workflows.
- Consolidating travel supplier invoices and managing a 30-day bill-back account facility.
- Providing comprehensive management reporting and quarterly travel reviews.
- Ensuring compliance with National Treasury cost containment instructions.
- Offering value-added services including destination information and travel alerts.
Key Requirements
- IATA Licence: Bidders must hold a valid IATA licence or provide proof of a signed agreement with a third-party IATA licence holder.
- Experience: Proven track record with organisations of at least 400 employees and 6,000 annual travel transactions.
- Online Booking System: Must demonstrate a functional OTBS with automated reporting capabilities.
- Performance Threshold: Bidders must achieve a minimum of 70 points out of 100 in the technical evaluation to proceed to the price and specific goals stage.
Evaluation and Submission
The evaluation follows a phased approach, with qualifying bidders required to present their Online Booking System. The contract will run for 36 months, with price adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index.
Related opportunity: DSAC Seeks Events Management Companies for 3-Year Panel
Submission and Enquiries
- Submission Method: Electronic via e-Tender portal.
- Closing Date: 16 September 2026 at 11:00.
- Enquiries Contact: Maletsatsi Sekhampu.
- Email: tsatsi.sekhampu@weathersa.co.za.
- Telephone: 012-367-6172.
- Briefing Session: 01 September 2026 at 10:00 (Virtual, non-compulsory).
Tender Documents
- Annexure A3 Pricing Schedule
- Annexure A1 Terms of Reference
- Annexure B General Conditions of Contract
- Annexure E POPIA Supplier Notice and Consent Form
- Annexure C Bidder’s Disclosure
- Annexure A2 Technical Scorecard and Compliance Checklist
- Annexure A4 Draft Service Level Indicators
- Annexure D Preference Points Claim Form
- Annexure A Invitation to Bid
Stay Updated
Want to stay informed about more tenders, funding opportunities, and business tips? Follow our updates on the StepApp Network:
- WhatsApp Channel: Follow StepApp Updates
- Facebook Page: Follow us
- WhatsApp Group: Join here
- LinkedIn Profile: Connect with StepApp
- X (Twitter): Follow StepApp SA on X
