Prime Minister Nabbanja Calls for Procurement Reforms to Boost Local Jobs

Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has called for sweeping reforms in public procurement, urging that government contracts be utilized strategically to create jobs and support local businesses across Uganda.

Every year, state institutions spend substantial sums on goods, infrastructure, and public services. However, Nabbanja emphasizes that public procurement should not be viewed merely as an administrative hurdle, but as a vital economic tool for national transformation. Her remarks were delivered by Second Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Crispus Walter Kiyonga during the 10th International Public Procurement Conference held at Hotel Africana in Kampala.

According to figures highlighted by the premier, procurement expenditure accounts for more than half of Uganda’s annual government budget. By directing a larger portion of these funds toward domestic suppliers, farmers, and manufacturers, the government can foster sustainable economic growth and help homegrown enterprises compete globally.

To achieve these goals, Nabbanja advocated for fair competition, greater accountability, and the adoption of modern technologies such as electronic procurement, data analytics, and artificial intelligence to enhance transparency. Nevertheless, she cautioned that technological upgrades must be paired with cybersecurity, ethical safeguards, and strong political will to combat corruption.

During the conference, Uganda Management Institute Director-General Prof. James L. Nkata also raised concerns about whether Africa’s vast public procurement spending truly benefits local populations, warning against systems that inadvertently siphon wealth away from developing economies. Read more details in the Observer.