Harare, (New Ziana) – Public procurement is not just a bureaucratic process but a cornerstone for achieving sustainable economic growth and development across the continent, Vice President Constantino Chiwenga said on Thursday.
He made these remarks at a ceremony where Zimbabwe was assuming the African Public Procurement Network (APPN) presidency from Rwanda which was held in Harare.
The handover ceremony saw the outgoing APPN president, Joyeuse Uwilingeye, pass the reins to the newly elected president, Clever Ruswa, who is the chief executive officer of the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PRAZ).
Zimbabwe, through PRAZ, was elected to the APPN presidency in Rwanda last November.
Established in October 2018 by 43 countries in Lomé, Togo, the APPN is the largest procurement network globally and now comprises 54 member countries grouped into five sub-regional networks namely Southern, Eastern, Central, Western, and Northern Africa.
Its primary purpose is to provide a platform for learning and networking among public procurement policymakers, regulators, and practitioners from its member countries.
Each sub-region is coordinated by a sub-regional coordinator and an alternate, elected by member countries within that region.
In his speech welcoming the new leadership, VP Chiwenga emphasized that public procurement constitutes the backbone of government expenditure, directly influencing critical aspects of the national development agenda.
“When efficiently managed, public procurement can stimulate local economies by enhancing infrastructure, healthcare, and education while also supporting small and medium enterprises and generating millions of jobs,” he said.
As Zimbabwe assumes the APPN Presidency, VP Chiwenga assured the government’s unwavering commitment to launching innovative programs aimed at strengthening and enhancing public procurement systems.
He congratulated Dr Ruswa, noting that his remarkable record in public administration and his vision for fostering innovation in procurement systems inspire confidence in his ability to lead the APPN into its next chapter.
“We are eager to work alongside him as he leverages his expertise and passion to drive the agenda of APPN forward,” he said.
VP Chiwenga also commended Uwilingeye for her leadership, which was defined by unwavering dedication, integrity, and steadfast commitment to enhancing public procurement practices across Africa.
“Under your guidance, we have seen significant strides in advancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency in our procurement.
“Your tireless efforts have set an exemplary standard for all of us, and we are profoundly grateful for the invaluable contributions you have made to this network and to the continent as a whole. Thank you for your exceptional service and for laying such a strong foundation for your successor,” he said.
Speaking at the event, Uwilingeye reflected on her tenure as APPN President, highlighting key achievements last year, including 8 knowledge-sharing sessions that attracted nearly 2 000 participants and a major webinar attended by 400 procurement professionals.
She also spoke of the successful hosting of the 4th General Assembly (FGA) in Kigali, which brought together over 250 participants from the APPN’s 54 member countries.
In his acceptance speech, Ruswa acknowledged the unwavering support from the government, saying this was a clear sign of political will to pursue the agenda of public procurement.
“I accept the Presidency of the APPN on behalf of my nation, Zimbabwe, through the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe. This is not just a personal milestone but a significant moment for our nation as we embrace this opportunity to lead the Continental Network,” Ruwa said.
He emphasized that his organization recognizes procurement as a vital driver of economic development and social progress.
The event marked a pivotal moment for Zimbabwe and the APPN, as the nation steps into a leadership role aimed at advancing sustainable and efficient public procurement practices across Africa.
New Ziana
