The Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PRAZ) has embraced the electronic Government Procurement (e-GP) system, which is now mandatory for all service providers to register on.

Addressing delegates at the PRAZ 3rd annual public procurement symposium in Bulawayo, PRAZ Chief Executive Officer Mr. Clever Ruswa highlighted the benefits of the e-GP system. He stated that the system will ensure transparency, consistency, and efficiency in the procurement process, enabling public entities and bidders to conduct procurement activities electronically.

"The e-GP System is a secure web-based application managed by PRAZ. It enables public entities and bidders to conduct procurement activities electronically. The e-GP System enhances competition, transparency, efficiency, and integrity in public procurement in Zimbabwe," Ruswa explained.

The e-GP system establishes standardized procurement procedures and workflows, ensuring consistency across all procurement activities. Ruswa noted that procurement done outside the system would introduce ad hoc and non-standardized processes, compromising the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the procurement system.

"The e-GP system serves as a comprehensive repository of procurement data, enabling robust data analysis and informed decision-making. Those done outside the system would create data gaps, hindering the ability to analyze and optimize the procurement process," Ruswa added.

Since the launch of the e-GP system in January, the authority has approved 251 annual procurement plans via the system. However, Ruswa expressed disappointment that some suppliers are yet to register with the system, a position he said breeds corruption and a lack of professionalism.

"Let us make sure we are on board going forward. The e-GP system helps ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and policies governing the procurement process. Through the system, we have a centralized record of all procurement activities, ensuring full transparency and accountability," Ruswa concluded.

The implementation of the e-GP system is a significant step towards enhancing transparency, efficiency, and integrity in Zimbabwe's public procurement sector, aligning with the government's commitment to good governance and effective service delivery.