The Sunday Mail
Vladimir Dube
CLOSE to 10 000 companies have registered on the electronic Government Procurement (eGP) System since its launch in October last year.
The online platform minimises human involvement in awarding tenders, thereby reducing opportunities for corruption.
Experts say by using a system that prioritises transparency and accountability, the Government can save up to 30 percent on procurement costs.
An electronic government procurement system is designed to enhance and streamline processes of public tendering and procurement through the use of information and communication technology.
Information about tenders, bidding criteria and awarded contracts are all accessible online, allowing more businesses to compete for Government projects.
The system automates many processes, reducing the risk of bias or favouritism in awarding contracts.
It automates tasks like submitting bids, evaluations and communication, speeding up the entire procurement process.
In an interview with The Sunday Mail, Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PRAZ) chief executive officer Mr Clever Ruswa said:
“As at the end of the first quarter, March 31, 2024, PRAZ is pleased to report that over 9 900 suppliers had successfully registered on the electronic Government Procurement platform.
“This shows that there is a growing appetite to supply the Government by the private sector and it also shows a huge step towards enhancing transparency and efficiency in procurement processes across Zimbabwe.
“On procuring entities (PEs), which is the market for the suppliers, over 380 PEs had created accounts on the eGP platform, with over 330 PEs having either submitted their applications to conduct procurement or were still at drafting stage.”
There has been an overwhelming response from PEs and suppliers to the implementation of the eGP System.
“Stakeholders have expressed enthusiasm for the streamlined processes and increased transparency facilitated by the platform,” Mr Ruswa added.
“However, as with any major technological transition, some challenges have been encountered.
“On both the suppliers’ and PEs’ sides, challenges encountered are mainly issues related to documentation, digital literacy, connectivity in remote areas and, in some instances, resistance to change.
“Nevertheless, PRAZ is actively addressing these challenges through capacity-building initiatives, infrastructure development and continuous online support for users.”
PRAZ, added Mr Ruswa, has held virtual capacity-building training for buyers and suppliers.
“With regard to infrastructure and connectivity challenges, PRAZ had already partnered with Zimpost to leverage on the already established community information centres, where buyers and suppliers can go for internet connectivity to access the system.”
He said PRAZ recognises the pervasive impact of corruption on procurement processes.
“In addition to the eGP System, PRAZ has adopted a multi-pronged approach that encompasses proactive measures to prevent corruption, robust enforcement mechanisms to detect and deter misconduct, and comprehensive strategies for promoting integrity and accountability in procurement activities.”
Launching the platform in Harare last year, President Mnangagwa said procurement malpractices had no place in the Government.
“The electronic Government Procurement System should, therefore, minimise human interface and assist in dealing with corruption issues associated with the procurement sector,” he said.
“Interactions in the system would be auditable and verifiable.
“The chicanery and shadowy awarding of contracts associated with our public tender processes must be put to an end.
“I, thus, challenge the procurement officials to be men and women of integrity.”
