Online Reporter
Judith Phiri, [email protected]
THE Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PRAZ) has reaffirmed its commitment to continue rolling out targeted training initiatives to address the capacity gaps that are often barriers to entry for many micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in procurement.
MSMEs in Zimbabwe are the backbone of the economy, comprising over 3.4 million entities that contribute roughly 70 to 76 percent of total employment and approximately US$8.6 billion to the gross domestic product (GDP).
Speaking at the Public Procurement: Bidders Workshop in Bulawayo, PRAZ chief executive officer (CEO), Dr Clever Ruswa said forging a path toward a transformative era in public procurement
for Zimbabwe was critical for an era defined by transparency, efficiency, and inclusivity.
“The electronic Government Procurement (eGP) system provides us with a unified online platform that promotes openness
and accessibility in procurement processes, enhancing the ability of all stakeholders to participate effectively. As we are already operating in this digital framework, we must embed a culture of accountability and transparency that is vital for nurturing trust among our citizens and stakeholders,” he said.
“But our commitment does not end with implementation; it extends to the continuous capacity-building of all those involved. In 2026, like we did in the past two years, PRAZ will continue with sector-specific training programs designed to equip MSMEs and other participants with the necessary skills to navigate the eGP system.”
He said these training sessions will empower MSMEs to harness the potential of the eGP system effectively and confidently, which are a vital step toward ensuring meaningful participation in public procurement.
Dr Ruswa said the implementation of the eGP system symbolises Government’s unwavering commitment to enhancing public procurement processes.
“As mandated by the authorities, all public entities must mandatorily adopt the eGP system when procuring. This directive is not merely a guideline; it is an unequivocal commitment that we must uphold at all costs.
“Equally, the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion issued a circular stating that they will not facilitate payments on procurements done outside the eGP system, let us take heed,” he added.
He said through targeted training initiatives, they aim to address the capacity gaps that are often barriers to entry for many MSMEs.
Dr Ruswa said this was about equipping stakeholders and not just the regular users but everyone who touches the public procurement process with the knowledge to excel.
“We will focus on enhancing understanding of procurement regulations, improving bid quality, and promoting compliance and ethical practices throughout our procurement processes. Our goal is clear, to promote not only participation but also the quality and competitiveness of bids from all sectors,” he said.
“We have adopted ‘Knowledge Sharing’ to
be our 2026 PRAZ theme and we can enhance self-service capabilities on the eGP platform, minimising reliance on intermediaries and ultimately expanding
opportunities for all who wish to engage in public procurement.”
Officially launched by President Mnangagwa in October 2023, the eGP system became operational on 1 January 2024, to enable all public entities and bidders to conduct procurement activities electronically.
