B-BBEE Compliance Quick Guide for Tender Submissions

Why B-BBEE matters in tenders

B-BBEE (Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment) is one of the biggest factors in South African tender evaluation. Under the PPPFA Regulations, your B-BBEE level can earn you preference points that may decide whether you win or lose.

The two acceptable forms of proof

1. B-BBEE Verification Certificate

• Issued by a SANAS-accredited verification agency.
• Required for Generic and most QSE entities.
• Valid for 12 months from date of issue.
• More expensive — typically required for entities above EME thresholds.

2. Sworn Affidavit

• A legal declaration signed before a Commissioner of Oaths.
• Acceptable for EMEs and qualifying QSEs under the Codes (subject to the applicable Sector Code).
• Typically valid for 12 months.
• Must use the official template (different sector codes have different templates).

Always read the tender wording

Some tenders explicitly require a verification certificate even from EMEs. Other tenders accept either. Read the tender wording carefully and follow exactly what is required — never substitute one for the other unless the tender allows it.

Common mistakes

• Submitting an expired B-BBEE certificate or affidavit.
• Using a Generic affidavit when the tender falls under a Sector Code (e.g. Construction, ICT, Tourism).
• Mismatched ownership figures between the affidavit and CIPC records.
• Not signing the affidavit before a Commissioner of Oaths (a notary or attorney is not the same).
• Confusing B-BBEE Level with Black Ownership % in the MBD 6.1 claim.

Quick checklist before submission

• [ ] B-BBEE proof is the type the tender requires (certificate vs affidavit)
• [ ] B-BBEE proof is valid (not expired)
• [ ] B-BBEE level on MBD 6.1 matches the certificate / affidavit
• [ ] Black ownership % matches CIPC records
• [ ] If a Sector Code applies, the affidavit / certificate is the sector-specific version
• [ ] All pages of the certificate / affidavit are clearly legible
• [ ] If using a sworn affidavit, signature, stamp and date are visible