DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister for Energy Dr Doto Biteko has urged procurement and supply chain professionals in the country to adhere to the highest ethical standards in their work to enable the government to drive development for its citizens.

Dr Biteko made the remarks on Tuesday when opening the 15th Annual Procurement and Supply Chain Professionals’ Conference currently taking place in Arusha.

He stressed that procurement and supply chain experts play a pivotal role in driving national development and that the government relies on them to achieve its goals.

“Procurement and supply chain experts have a major contribution to make. Over 70 percent of the entire national budget is allocated to procurement, so it is crucial that you uphold integrity, fight corruption, and advise on the best ways to successfully implement development programmes,” Dr Biteko said.

Given the significant responsibilities entrusted to them, he acknowledged that there is a risk that large-scale corruption could occur within their ranks. 

He urged the attendees to use the discussions at the conference to equip themselves with the tools necessary to prevent and combat such practices.

Furthermore, Dr Biteko emphasised that it is the duty of procurement professionals to safeguard the integrity of their profession and ensure that it is not compromised by individuals lacking the required qualifications.

 He also called on the relevant authorities to recognise and motivate qualified professionals in accordance with the law.

He also encouraged the participants to conduct self-assessments regarding their work performance to address any challenges that may tarnish the reputation of the procurement and supply chain profession.

“There are voices among you that you are aware of. Some claim that to secure a tender, one must have close ties with procurement officers. Others say that following proper procurement procedures results in higher costs than usual. Some talk about tender secrets being shared among staff, while others either criticise or praise the process. The important thing is to listen to these voices and reflect on your own practices,” he said.

Deputy Minister for Finance, Hamad Chande urged the participants to collaborate and continue working together, as his ministry seeks solutions to the challenges facing procurement and supply chain professionals.

He identified factors such as jealousy, greed, and gossip among civil servants as major contributors to bureaucratic delays within the government. 

He encouraged the professionals to eliminate these issues in order to foster growth and achieve progress.

“The Public Procurement Act, Chapter 410, protects procurement and supply chain professionals, so you should stand tall and ensure that you work in accordance with the existing laws,” he said.

Benezeth Ruta, Vice Chairman of the Procurement and Supply Professionals’ Board (PSPTB), thanked the government for allocating funds that enable the advancement of the profession.

He mentioned that the board is actively implementing the provisions of the Public Procurement Act No. 23 of 2007, ensuring that procurement and supply professionals meet the necessary qualifications to perform their roles.