When it comes to Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) compliance, managing your B-BBEE Verification Certificates and Sworn Affidavits isn’t just important—it’s essential. The BEE Chamber, a trusted leader in B-BBEE compliance, is urging businesses to be more proactive about this process. Efficiently managing these documents can maximise your B-BBEE scores and help you meet your procurement targets.
Bridget Themba, Certificate Services Manager at The BEE Chamber, has seen first-hand how challenging it can be for organisations to keep their B-BBEE documentation up to date. “Collecting B-BBEE Verification Certificates, CIPC EME Verifications, and Sworn Affidavits requires resources, patience, and constant follow-up,” she explains. But it’s worth the effort—each valid B-BBEE status makes a real impact on your overall scorecard.
One of the biggest challenges businesses face, according to Themba, is simply getting their suppliers to understand the importance of keeping their B-BBEE Statuses updated. “Many suppliers don’t realise how vital it is to submit up-to-date Sworn Affidavits,” she says. “It’s up to Measured Entities to educate their supply chains on the importance of regularly updating their B-BBEE documentation.”
But it’s not just about awareness. There are other hurdles too—like delayed submissions, incorrect scorecards, and inaccuracies in Sworn Affidavits. Sometimes, supplier information changes unexpectedly, which can throw everything off track. That’s why effective planning and timely action are key to streamlining the B-BBEE verification process.
Themba suggests setting realistic timelines and managing expectations to ensure things run smoothly. “By having solid Supplier Application processes and teaching suppliers what’s required, businesses can improve their chances of successfully collecting updated B-BBEE statuses,” she says.
It’s also crucial to meet the B-BBEE Commission’s Practice Guide and other legislative requirements to ensure your B-BBEE Verification Certificates and Sworn Affidavits are valid. This means checking everything from ownership percentages to regulatory compliance.
For B-BBEE Verification Certificates, Themba highlights the importance of Technical Signatories. Not just anyone working at a B-BBEE Rating Agency can sign off on these certificates. They need to be accredited by the South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) and complete a specialised management programme through UNISA or Wits. SANAS also assesses their competence, ensuring they’re fully equipped to handle B-BBEE codes and compliance.
To make sure your B-BBEE Certificate is legitimate, a Technical Signatory must sign it off before it’s issued. They’re responsible for making sure everything is accurate and complies with the necessary regulations.
As businesses navigate the often complicated world of B-BBEE compliance, The BEE Chamber remains dedicated to providing the support and guidance you need. By proactively managing your B-BBEE statuses, you can improve compliance, promote transformation, and set your business up for sustainable growth.