Dr Gaston Savoi - Holding Statement

I entered this country in 2001 by invitation and assistance from the Trade and Investment Council of South Africa, who provided me with guidance and advice on how to do business in South Africa and set up my companies. My wealth was, and is, untainted and has not been gained through any illegal means.

I am innocent and look forward to proving my innocence. I have cooperated with the police since investigations started in 2007. I am deeply disappointed in the turn of events which has led to me being treated as a criminal and (or who is) a flight risk.  I ask that my and my family’s privacy be respected and that the process of justice be allowed to take its course.

Intaka Tech manufactures mobile water purification systems and on site gas generating units that work. One of the big problems faced by South Africa and countries with an outlying rural population is that they rely on smaller hospitals and clinics for health care. Providing units that generate medical oxygen and medical air on site means that one avoids the risks related to non-delivery of a vital resource. Our water purification plants are able to generate over one million litres of potable water every day. The South African Government is currently under pressure to provide pure, uncontaminated water to remote communities.

Intaka Tech has the skills and equipment to assist government in providing appropriate solutions to addressing these needs.  Our systems, like any machine, or car for that matter, require regular maintenance in order to maintain optimum functioning. Some units are not working optimally, but this is due entirely to the failure by the relevant hospitals and municipalities to maintain the units properly.

For someone who has been living and working in South Africa for over 9 years, I have immense love and respect for the country, and what South Africans have achieved. I have persuaded my family, colleagues and friends to invest their lives and livelihoods in this country. It was not only a business decision but also a matter of the heart.

I respect the country’s policy of Black Economic Empowerment as we follow similar principles in South America. We needed South African partners who could add real value to the process and we relied on government advice we were given. There is no doubt that the government tender process, now under such intense scrutiny, is complicated. I look forward to proving the legitimacy of commissions paid for work secured and will continue to co-operate with the legal system in order to prove my innocence.”

For further information regarding the case, please contact Rachelle Bricout from ENS on 021 410 6545 or 082 339 4565.