The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Hon. Dr. Doto Biteko, has urged procurement and supply professionals in the country to adhere to the ethical principles of their profession to enable the government to bring development to its citizens.
Dr. Biteko made the remarks today, December 17, 2024, while opening the 15th Procurement and Supply Professionals Conference taking place in Arusha.
He emphasized that procurement and supply professionals are crucial in driving development and that the government relies on their expertise to successfully implement its plans.
Dr. Biteko highlighted the significant role of procurement professionals, noting that over 70% of the national budget is allocated to procurement activities.
He urged the professionals to remain ethical, reject corruption, and offer guidance on how best to achieve development goals.
He emphasized that given the broad scope of their responsibilities, corruption may easily pass through their hands, and therefore, these discussions are vital to preventing and addressing such issues.
Furthermore, Dr. Biteko stressed the importance of professionals protecting their field with integrity. He called for a strong defense of the profession to ensure it is not infiltrated by individuals lacking the necessary qualifications.
He also encouraged the relevant authorities to recognize and motivate qualified professionals based on legal standards.
He urged the conference participants to carry out self-assessments of their work performance in order to eliminate challenges that could tarnish the procurement and supply profession.
On the issue of corruption, Dr. Biteko shared concerns about the voices he hears, which suggest unethical practices in the procurement field.
Some professionals claim that winning tenders requires being friendly with procurement officers, while others suggest that following proper procedures leads to inflated costs.
Dr. Biteko called on participants to listen to these voices, reflect on their work, and evaluate their actions to ensure transparency and ethical conduct.
In his address, the Deputy Minister of Finance, Hon. Hamad Chande, urged the participants to work collaboratively and assured them that his ministry is committed to finding solutions to the challenges faced by procurement and supply professionals.
He identified jealousy, greed, and gossip among public servants as key factors contributing to delays in government operations. He encouraged professionals to rid themselves of such behaviors in order to foster growth and progress.
“The Public Procurement Act, Chapter 410, protects procurement and supply professionals, so walk with confidence and ensure that you work according to the existing laws,” Hon. Chande advised.
Finally, the Vice-Chairman of the Procurement and Supply Professionals Board (PSPTB), Benezeth Ruta, expressed gratitude to the government for allocating funds to support the profession’s development.
He confirmed that the Board continues to implement the Procurement and Supply Professional Act No. 23 of 2007 to ensure that professionals in the field are well-qualified and equipped to perform their duties effectively.