This archive report was first published on 4 September 2019.
Kenya's Tender System: A Path to Success ¶
With the government allocating 30 percent of tenders to youth, women, and people with disabilities, the potential for growth and opportunity is vast. However, many Kenyans have been disillusioned by the concept of 'tenderpreneurship,' where those with the 'right' connections seem to win awards.
Esther Kang'ethe, a customer advisor at Jamii Bora Bank's Tender Hub, aims to bridge this knowledge gap. She emphasizes the importance of acquiring training, understanding the types of tenders and financing methods, and leveraging social capital to succeed in the tender system.
According to Esther, acquiring training is crucial for entrepreneurs to make informed choices and navigate the tendering process effectively. Jamii Bora Bank offers a one-day training program that covers topics such as types of tenders, pricing bids, and identifying credible procuring entities.
Esther also highlights the significance of tender listing sites, where businesses can find and apply for tenders. Jamii Bora Bank's Tender Hub provides free tender listing services, consolidating all updated tenders in one place, along with business registration support, tax filing, and financing.
Furthermore, Esther stresses the importance of social capital, connections, and knowing one's objectives when pursuing tenders. She advises entrepreneurs to lay bare their primary reasons for winning a tender and to standardize their product prices before sending them to buyers.
By following these expert insights, entrepreneurs can increase their chances of success in Kenya's tender system and capitalize on the government's initiatives to promote marginalized groups.
