The Public Procurement Regulation Authority (PPRA), in collaboration with GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH) and @iLabAfrica of Strathmore Unibversity, today announces the launch of the enhanced Public Procurement Information Platform (PPIP).

The Public Procurement Information Portal is an online platform provided by the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) for the publication of contract awards and tender notices by Procuring Entities.

Originally launched in July 2018 following the issuance of Executive Order No.2 of 2018, the PPIP platform has continuously aimed at ensuring the portal was able to comprehensively track procurement processes, from tender calls to certification and resolution of procurement-related complaints.

The recent reconfiguration of the platform, completed by @iLablAfrica of Strathmore University, aims to create a more transparent and automated system that addresses previous backlogs in tender details. Key enhancements include:

~Advanced Tender Viewing Options: Users can filter and view tenders based on selected criteria, with an automated notification system alerting users to upcoming tenders.

~Increased Contract Award Visibility: The new contracts page allows users to see which contracts were awarded, to whom, and at what amount, enhancing transparency.

Speaking during the platform launch, Hon. Jimmy Kahindi, Chairman of PPRA, stated “This event is the culmination of a collective effort that began back in July 2018, when PPIP was originally launched following the issuance of Executive Order No.2 of 2018.

Since then, the platform has continuously delivered the key principle of transparency, accountability, openness and enhanced disclosure of public procurement information to the public.”

He further stated that, “In today’s fast-paced world, where data drives decisions and transparency fosters trust, we must have systems that are robust, intuitive, and accessible.

The enhanced portal is a testament to the goals of the Review Board as it ensures a seamless procurement process that is transparent, accountable, and free from corruption.

This not only safeguards public funds but also promotes confidence in the system”

Mr. Thomas Ansorg lauded the launch of the platform stating “PPRA has played a pivotal role in regulating public procurement and asset disposal systems in Kenya. Their efforts have significantly contributed to Socio-Economic developments in Kenya.

Over the years we have worked hand in hand to ensure efficiency and integrity in public procurement.

The enhancements on PPIP are not just technical enhancements, they are a leap forward in our collective effort to foster an open, transparent and accountable public procurement system. We look forward to continuing this fruitful partnership and achieving milestones in public procurement.”

At present, there are approximately 900 procuring entities, including county governments, schools (primary and secondary), and parastatals. Kenyan law mandates around 12 tendering processes to ensure fairness and transparency in public procurement.

The procurement system currently has about 1500 registered Procurement Entities, of which 300 to 800 are active. The goal is to scale this up to over 34,000 Procurement Entities, which would significantly expand the reach and impact.

This launch marks a significant milestone in improving public procurement processes in Kenya, ensuring efficiency and accountability.

This Article was first published here.