When you think about Uganda’s public procurement system, the first things that might come to mind are government tenders and large-scale contracts. But what if we told you there’s more happening behind the scenes, and much of it is working to disrupt outdated processes, increase transparency, and create opportunities for those traditionally excluded? This is the undercurrent driving the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA), and it’s time we talk about what’s going on.
PPDA isn’t just overseeing procurement; it’s actively reshaping it to work better for the people. One of the most significant yet often overlooked efforts is capacity building.
Mercy Kyoshabire, Manager of Procurement Capacity Building at PPDA, reveals, “We’ve trained over 1,500 procurement officers, ensuring that 90% are certified in procurement management. This isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about equipping these officers to manage risks and make informed decisions in real-time.” This dedication to improving skills is driving a massive shift, transforming Uganda’s procurement process into one that’s more efficient and professional.
But that’s just the start. Perhaps the biggest disruptor PPDA has introduced is the move to digital. PPDA’s push for an electronic procurement system is creating a transparent, fraud-resistant environment where businesses of all sizes, from small to large, have an equal shot at government contracts.
“With e-procurement, we are not only increasing efficiency but also minimizing the chance for manipulation or fraud,” says Kyoshabire. This digital transformation is a game-changer for a sector that’s been known for lack of transparency.
Even more revolutionary is PPDA’s focus on inclusivity. The public may not realize that PPDA is now reserving government contracts specifically for women, youth, and persons with disabilities. “For local governments, procurements under 10 million shillings are now reserved for these groups,” Kyoshabire explains. “For central government, contracts below 30 million shillings will also be reserved for these categories.”
This policy is not just about equity; it’s about reshaping how procurement works at its very core, ensuring that groups often sidelined in business have a direct stake in the country’s development.
PPDA’s work is about more than just processes; it’s about creating a procurement system that drives real, tangible change. As Mercy Kyoshabire puts it, “Public procurement should be a tool for economic empowerment, fairness, and national development.” The authority’s bold actions are setting the stage for a future where public procurement works for everyone.
PPDA, established in 2003, has spent the past two decades working to transform Uganda’s public procurement sector into one of fairness, transparency, and inclusivity.