Evaluation of the performance of public procurement system in Tanzania

Public procurement systems in many developing countries are weak. This research was conducted to assess the performance of public procurement in Tanzania and propose measure measures to strengthen and improve its efficiency and transparency. The research was conducted using a set of questionnaires prepared and administered to the stakeholders of public procurement. Questionnaires were sent to 51 stakeholders out of whom 18 procuring entities, 13 contractors and 8 consultants responded. The research shows that the procurement legal framework in Tanzania is adequate. However, the challenge remains to put it in practice and ensure implementation of the institutional and the legal framework established by the Public Procurement Act (PPA) of 2004. Overall rating of the performance indicators for assessing Public Procurement show that public procurement system has improved significantly. Some areas, like training and skill development, information sharing and collaboration, procurement planning, cooperation with suppliers and contract management, still need improvement. The research recommends the establishment of uniformity in procedures, policies, documentation and contract options and the implementation of sound systems of control and accountability to form the cornerstore of institutional reforms of control and accountability to form the cornerstore of institutional reform, for the effective, efficient and transparent procurement system.