National Treasury CS John Mbadi has directed all principal secretaries (PSs) and accounting officers in government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to ensure the immediate implementation of the new Electronic Government Procurement (eGP) system.
Speaking at the system’s launch in Nairobi, Mbadi emphasized that any resistance to the rollout would not be tolerated.
The eGP is expected to streamline government operations, improve transparency, and enhance service delivery. It will also make procurement and tendering processes more accessible to the public.
CS Mbadi Issues Strong Warning to PSs – Comply or Face Consequences
During the eGP launch on Monday, CS Mbadi made it clear that Principal Secretaries (PSs) and accounting officers must take full responsibility for the system’s adoption in their departments.
Mbadi warned that failure to comply with the rollout would result in severe consequences, including possible removal from their positions.
“I am not the one who appoints you; it’s the President. But I am the one who made you an accounting officer,” Mbadi stated. “If you fail to implement the eGP system, I will recommend to the President whether you should remain in your role.”
eGP System Aims to Streamline Government Operations
The introduction of the eGP system is a significant step in the government’s push for more efficient procurement practices.
The system will allow for the digital storage and management of procurement records, including budgetary allocations, procurement plans, and tender evaluation reports.
The government will also upload various bid bonds and make them publicly available, fostering greater transparency in its dealings.
The system requires all suppliers to register before they can do business with the government. This registration will involve providing a valid business registration number, Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN, company registration documents, and official contact details.
Mbadi stressed that the registration process is just the first step. “MDAs must begin with supplier registration and then move on to procuring entity registration,” he directed. “Once the registration is complete, suppliers must be trained on how to use the system effectively.”
The Treasury has also announced that once the budget verification process is complete, it will publish an explainer to help the public understand the contents of the budget.
In conclusion, CS Mbadi’s call for the immediate and full adoption of the eGP system marks a major shift in government procurement.
The eGP system promises to improve efficiency, reduce corruption, and make government procurement more accessible to suppliers, ensuring greater accountability and service delivery.
