The functioning of government procurement services agency (GPSA) in achieving value for money procurement process: the case of Tanzania

This study assessed the functioning of the Government Procurement Services Agency (GPSA) in procuring goods and services. GPS A was established in 2007 through Government Notice No 235 of 2007. The main functions for which this agency was established are to provide adequate quality supplies in competitive prices to the government; to provide safe and secure warehousing and storage facilities; and to manage framework agreements for common use items, works and services. Despite establishment of GPSA, the government has not been able to enjoy the envisioned benefits. The government has continued to procure goods and services from the market at higher prices. The quality of the goods and services procured is questionable, and there is continued malpractices and loss of money have continued. The findings of this study have evidenced that GPSA has not been functioning as it was expected and there is inadequate economical and legal support to make it function efficiently. Based on the findings, a number of recommendations have been made. These include enactment of a separate legislation to establish and set the scope of the functioning of GPSA; establishment of an independent body responsible for policies and day-to-day matters; and amendment of the Public Procurement Act, 2004 to mandate GPSA to deal with emergency issues requiring the government to procure goods and services.