In defence of procurement profession: Upholding integrity amidst challenges

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OPINION

By Charles Barasa

Last month, the New Vision published an article in which I suggested that the government should hire procurement professionals to handle procurement related tasks in public schools.

I received a beating from friends and foe alike. They aver that procurement professionals are inherently corrupt, and that my suggestion was meant to extend that corruption into public schools.

Now, this is not surprising to me. In recent years, the procurement profession in Uganda has faced significant scrutiny, with accusations of corruption tarnishing its reputation. While it is crucial to acknowledge concerns surrounding transparency and misconduct in public procurement, it is equally important to defend the integrity of the profession as a whole and highlight the rigorous frameworks that guide its practice.

The Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Act 2003 and the subsequent amendments thereto, serves as a cornerstone for ensuring accountability and transparency in the procurement process in Uganda. This legislation was designed to provide clear guidelines and standards that govern the procurement of goods, services, and works by public entities. Its objectives include promoting competition, encouraging fairness, and safeguarding public funds—all essential for enhancing the social economic transformation trajectory of Uganda as espoused by His Excellency, the President.

The Act establishes mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating procurement processes, ensuring that every transaction adheres to principles of integrity and efficiency. It is these guidelines that empower numerous procurement professionals to operate ethically, adhering to the standards set forth by law. The Act mandates a public procurement and disposal structure that prioritizes value for money, ensuring that taxpayer resources are used judiciously.

While isolated incidents of corruption by individuals may capture headlines and generate public outcry, and I hasten to add that these are quite very few individuals with a knack for Primitive accumulation of wealth, a concept aptly described by the likes Karl Marx, David Harvey, Adam smith et al; it is critical to recognize that the majority of procurement officers in Uganda are committed to upholding ethical standards. These professionals strive to adhere to the principles enshrined in the Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Act, navigating complex procurement processes with integrity and dedication.

Many procurement practitioners work tirelessly to implement best practices and foster a culture of transparency within their organizations. They actively engage in continuous professional development, seeking to enhance their knowledge and adhere to ethical standards. Their commitment to ethical procurement not only benefits the public sector but also contributes to broader economic stability and growth.

Moreover, the procurement profession plays a vital role in facilitating national development. Efficient procurement practices lead to the timely acquisition of goods and services necessary for infrastructure projects, healthcare, education, and public welfare initiatives. The positive impacts of these efforts can be seen in improved public services and national infrastructure development, the more than 5% GDP growth rate Year-on-Year, all of which directly contribute to the well-being of citizens.

I therefore suggest that instead of descriptively lampooning the entire profession, It is essential to foster a dialogue that distinguishes between the actions of a few individuals and the integrity of the procurement profession as a whole. While tackling corruption head-on is essential and HE, THE President has been steadfast on this issue right from his early days of leadership, it is equally critical to support and empower ethical professionals who are dedicated to serving the public good. Strengthening training and professional development programs can further enhance ethical standards and accountability within the procurement sector.

In conclusion, I would like to encourage an evidence-based debate devoid of nefarious generalizations when discussing the nature, source and dimensions of corruption and its negative ramifications to the national moral fabric and economic transformation.

The writer is procurement professional