Kenya Govt Launches Procurement Portal to Streamline Procurement Processes

The Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA), in collaboration with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH and @iLabAfrica Strathmore University, 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 the procurement processes, from tender calls to certification and resolution of procurement-related complaints.

The recent reconfiguration of the platform, completed by @iLabAfrica Strathmore University in February 2022, 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.
• Automated Account Approvals: Procuring entities can register on the platform and have their accounts systematically reviewed and approved or rejected by PPRA officials.

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.”

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 PPIP not only embodies our dedication to upholding procurement standards but also meets the expectations of the users.

Mr Patrick Wanjuki, The  Director  General of PPRA stated,  “The timing of the Launch is significant as the country is currently demanding increased government transparency. Our responsibility as a regulator extends beyond review and monitoring; we aim to provide Kenyans with the assurance that tendering processes are properly documented to ensure transparency.”

The platform was designed by@iLabAfrica, Strathmore University E Health team. Speaking during the launch @iLabAfrica Director, Dr. Joseph Sevilla  ‘This event marks a significant milestone as @iLabAfrica and PPRA launched the revamped PPIP platform after 2 years of tireless work.  This state-of-the-art system is now aligned with the Open Contracting Data Standard (OCDS) with automated account approvals, visibility on awarded tenders and many more features.

It is a significant upgrade from the version launched in 2015, which, although revolutionary at the time, faced challenges in protocol adherence and comprehensive data capture. @iLabAfrica has worked hard to ensure responsiveness and accountability in the fight against corruption.’

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.