Key Takeaways
- Tebogo Malaka, the former CEO of the Independent Development Trust (IDT), has officially stepped down from her position, effective January 31, 2026.
- Malaka’s resignation comes after she was suspended last year due to allegations of attempting to bribe a journalist.
- She will not receive any exit compensation.
- Sifiso Nsibande will continue to serve as acting CEO of the IDT.
- Malaka’s career spans various roles in the public sector, including positions at the Department of Social Development and the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry.
Introduction to Tebogo Malaka’s Resignation
Tebogo Malaka, the former CEO of the Independent Development Trust (IDT), has officially stepped down from her position, effective January 31, 2026. The organisation confirmed that her resignation will take effect on the specified date and that she will not receive any exit compensation. This development comes after Malaka was suspended last year due to allegations of attempting to bribe a journalist. The incident, which occurred in August 2025, was captured on video footage released by the Daily Maverick, showing a meeting between Malaka, IDT spokesperson Phasha Makgolane, and journalist Pieter-Louis Myburgh at a restaurant near Stellenbosch in the Western Cape.
Background to the Scandal
The incident that led to Malaka’s suspension occurred just days after she was suspended following a PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) investigation. The investigation uncovered irregularities connected to IDT’s R836 million oxygen plants scandal. The scandal has raised concerns about the organisation’s governance and management, and Malaka’s alleged attempt to bribe a journalist has further damaged the organisation’s reputation. In the interim, Sifiso Nsibande will continue to serve as acting CEO of the IDT, tasked with restoring the organisation’s reputation and ensuring its continued operations.
Tebogo Malaka’s Career Background
According to her LinkedIn profile, Malaka has a strong background in the public sector. She completed her matric at Tsogo Secondary School in Mmakau, located in the North West of the City of Tshwane. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and an MBA from MANCOSA, graduating in 2016. In the same year, she also completed a Short Course in Public-Private Partnerships in Infrastructure at the University of Queensland in Australia. Her career began at the Department of Social Development as a Programme Manager for Community Development. She then moved to the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, where she held various positions and was appointed Director between 2006 and 2009.
Malaka’s Other Roles and Affiliations
In addition to her role as IDT CEO, Malaka has held various other positions and affiliations. She is currently a member of the North West Development Corporation and Magalies Water Boards, and a Trustee of Mmutla wa Noko Trust. She previously served as a Non-Executive Director on the Board of Sentech until April 2021. In November 2021, she was appointed as IDT CEO, a position she held until her suspension and subsequent resignation. Malaka’s experience and qualifications made her a suitable candidate for the role, but her alleged involvement in the bribery scandal has tarnished her reputation and led to her downfall.
Conclusion and Future Implications
The resignation of Tebogo Malaka as IDT CEO marks a significant development in the organisation’s efforts to address the scandal and restore its reputation. The appointment of Sifiso Nsibande as acting CEO is a step in the right direction, but the organisation still faces significant challenges in rebuilding trust with its stakeholders. The incident highlights the importance of good governance and transparency in public institutions, and the need for leaders to uphold the highest standards of integrity and ethics. As the IDT moves forward, it is essential that it prioritises accountability, transparency, and good governance to restore public trust and ensure its continued success.