The ManicaPost
Business Reporter
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has warned Government officials who inflate prices in the procurement process to abandon the practice and discard corruption.
While officially launching the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PRAZ) in Harare yesterday (Thursday) he said the setting up of the authority will enhance transparency and efficiency in public procurement.
“I am aware that some Government officials would inflate figures. That should stop. I challenge PRAZ to effectively carry out its mandate, play its mandate in a way that inspires confidence. I am aware that PRAZ does not have teeth. We will give you the teeth. It will not be acceptable for there to be bottlenecks caused by PRAZ. It must always supervise entities below it,” said President Mnangagwa.
“Let me reiterate that ethical behaviour in procurement is paramount. This must never be taken lightly. Corruption will not be condoned. Let’s turn a new leaf and build a prosperous Zimbabwe.”
President Mnangagwa said the Constitution requires companies to ensure transparency in public procurement and the launch of PRAZ was consistent with the dictates of the supreme law of the land.
He said it was worrying that purchases were characterised by the inflation of prices and other malpractices like doubling costs for self serving objectives.
All this must stop, he said.
“I expect all heads of ministries to be fully conversant with the law as accounting officers.”
President Mnangagwa said old practices must be abandoned.
“Gone were the days when a project would go for one year in the office of PRAZ. If a project is approved or not that should be made clear to chart the way forward. The days of cartels are over.
PRAZ, formerly known as the State Procurement Board, has been rationalised so that it superintends over procurement entities and enhance Government’s thrust to improve the ease of doing business in the country.
The establishment of PRAZ was supported by the World Bank to the tune of a US$2 million grant.
President Mnangagwa hailed the World Bank for its support in the enactment of the Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Act.
The launch was also attended by Vice President Kembo Mohadi and several cabinet ministers.
