Unravelling SA's public procurement challenges

Unravelling SA's public procurement challenges

Podcast

Unravelling SA's public procurement challenges

Podcast

00:00 00:00

Download MP3

Vincent said public procurement refers to a process in which the state acquires goods and services to fulfil a public function. In the last few years, South Africa has not amended its regulations concerning public procurement. The last amendment was in late 1999 or early 2000. The complexity arises because there are different regulations and regulators that govern public procurement.

South Africa’s complex public procurement system has become a hotbed for legal battles over the years. This has resulted in significant delays and inefficiencies that hinder service delivery and drain financial resources on a national level.

Vincent adds that the Procurement Bill aims to create a more organised system by establishing a Public Procurement Tribunal. This tribunal would handle disputes related to procurement decisions made by government bodies, including matters like barring certain bidders or suppliers from participating.

Vincent says the effects of setting up the Tribunal and implementing standstill provisions must be carefully watched. They could either extend the already lengthy procurement process or significantly shorten it.