‘PPDA’s e-register promotes local firms’

Aug 04, 2010

EARLY this year, the procurement body, PPDA launched an online database of providers works, services and goods to the Government. According to the PPDA website, all firms that want to do business with the Government must first register online.

By Esther Namirimu,/b>
EARLY this year, the procurement body, PPDA launched an online database of providers works, services and goods to the Government. According to the PPDA website, all firms that want to do business with the Government must first register online.

As a service provider, why must you register your firm on the e-register?
The e-register aims at creating a sustainable and vibrant web- based forum for procuring and disposing entities to interact with providers hence promoting a more transparent and enabling business environment, according to the register website, www.ppdaproviders.ug.

Dorah Egunyu, the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority spokeswoman, said registered firms increased their visibility.

“The register helps to identify eligible providers to participate in preference and reservation schemes, thus promoting national and local business development and capacity in the country.”

It is also used as the first source of information on providers by the procurement entities when developing their shortlists.

Benon Basheka, the council chairman of the Institute of Procurement Professionals of Uganda, said e-procurement promotes fairness in the bidding process.

He added that the initiative will increase efficiency and reduce costs.
Joseph, a procurement officer, said registration provides instant on-line access to tenders in government for all registered providers,” he added.

To get maximum benefits from the e-register, providers must submit accurate and relevant information.
However, experts say the policy will only work if the Government extends cheap Internet services to rural districts and review the present procurement law.

“Uganda has no law that governs electronic procurement. The current law doesn’t recognise electronic signatures.
“Even the PPDA Act of 2003 does not recognise e-mails as in official communication,” they say.



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