Ministry of Infrastructure and Urban Development Permanent Secretary Albert Malama has called for strong and transparent procurement systems to support national development and ensure value for public investments.
Mr Malama notes that the government remains committed to strengthening procurement processes to ensure infrastructure projects are delivered on time, within budget and of quality.
He noted that the government continues to prioritise infrastructure development as a key driver of economic growth and national transformation.
The PS was speaking during a meeting of procurement professionals organised by the Zambia Institute of Purchasing and Supply (ZIPS) held in Lusaka.
Mr Malama welcomed the platform created by Zambia Institute of Purchasing and Supply, which brings together Heads of Procurement, Heads of Stores and other practitioners to deliberate on key issues shaping the profession in Zambia.
He explained that projects such as roads, railways, public buildings, water systems, and logistics infrastructure require robust procurement systems to guarantee accountability and efficiency in the use of public resources.
“Every procurement decision you make has implications for national development, fiscal discipline and service delivery to our people,” he said.
Mr Malama stated that procurement professionals carry a major responsibility in ensuring that public investments achieve value for money while safeguarding integrity and public trust in government systems.
He also called for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors, noting that effective procurement systems help create a predictable and transparent environment that encourages private sector participation, investment, and development.
Mr Malama further emphasised the importance of integrity and accountability in procurement, stating that the government is committed to strengthening systems that promote transparency and reduce opportunities for malpractice.
But isn’t it government that designs these “transparent procurement systems”? Or is government wanting to find someone to point a finger at? Whenever I retire my impressions the govt auditor checks my receipts like a PM surgeon. Whose system does he use? Government of course
*Whenever I retire my imprests
Now that is a tall order how do you ecpect them to keep up their already used to life styles