It’s likely that you have heard the word “SITA number” if you have ever worked with government tenders, IT procurement, or public sector technology contracts in South Africa. However, what is a SITA number and why is it significant?
We’ll explain everything in an easy-to-read manner in this blog post, particularly for companies wishing to collaborate with the South African government in the technology sector.
What Is SITA?
SITA stands for the State Information Technology Agency. It’s a public entity in South Africa, established in 1999, responsible for providing IT services to the government. From cybersecurity and data hosting to procurement and network services, SITA plays a central role in driving digital transformation across public institutions.
If you’re a company looking to do business with the South African government — especially in the ICT sector — you’ll likely need to go through SITA.
What Is a SITA Number?
A SITA number is a unique identifier assigned to suppliers who have registered with SITA. Think of it as your official pass to participate in IT-related tenders and procurement processes managed by the government.
Without a valid SITA number, your company won’t be eligible to bid on many government-issued tenders that fall under the scope of ICT (Information and Communication Technology).
Why Is a SITA Number Important?
Here’s why you need a SITA number if you’re serious about working with the South African government:
- ✅ Tender Eligibility: Many ICT-related government tenders require a SITA number for consideration.
- ✅ Credibility: Being registered with SITA shows that your business is recognized and compliant with government standards.
- ✅ Opportunities: Access a broader range of high-value contracts across national and provincial departments.
How Do You Get a SITA Number?
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to getting your SITA number in South Africa:
- Register as a supplier on the SITA Supplier Portal (available via the official SITA website).
- Submit required documentation, such as your company registration documents, tax clearance certificate, BBBEE certificate, and more.
- Undergo evaluation and approval. SITA will verify your details and assess your business capacity.
- Once approved, you’ll be issued a SITA vendor number (your SITA number), which you’ll use in all future tenders and communications with the agency.
Who Needs a SITA Number?
Not every business needs a SITA number — only those involved in:
- IT hardware supply
- Software development or licensing
- Cybersecurity services
- Cloud hosting and infrastructure
- Tech consultancy for the public sector
If you’re in any of these industries and looking to do business with government departments, applying for a SITA number is a smart move.