Public Procurement Processes and their effects on the Performance of Public Projects at The Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development and Ministry Of Local Government and Rural Development [2022 - 2023]

Abstract

This study aimed to comprehensively examine the impact of public procurement processes on the performance of public projects within the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development (MIHUD) and Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development in Zambia (MLGRD). The research utilized a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methodologies. A survey-based descriptive research design was employed, allowing for the collection of data from a selected sample to explore the nuanced dynamics of procurement practices. This study, conducted within the Ministries of Infrastructure and Local Government and Rural Development in Zambia, employed Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) to scrutinize the intricate relationships between public procurement processes and the performance of public projects. The purpose was to unravel the specific impacts of Supplier Qualification Screening (SQS), Competitive Bidding (CB), and Supplier Evaluation (SE) on Public Project Performance. Key findings highlighted the substantial positive influence of effective Supplier Qualification Screening (SQS) and Competitive Bidding (CB) on Public Project Performance. Transparent screening processes and fair bidding emerged as crucial contributors to project success. Unexpectedly, stringent Supplier Evaluation (SE) processes were found to have a negative impact on project performance, challenging initial hypotheses and emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of evaluation methodologies. Hypotheses testing reinforced these findings, rejecting the null hypotheses and affirming the alternative hypotheses. Specifically, effective Supplier Qualification Screening (SQS) and Competitive Bidding (CB) were found to significantly influence and contribute to the performance of public projects. However, Supplier Evaluation (SE) exhibited an unexpected negative association with project success. General recommendations arising from the study encompass the enhancement of regulatory frameworks, continuous capacity building, addressing bureaucratic delays, promoting e-procurement platforms, and fostering collaboration with stakeholders. These recommendations aim to foster transparency, efficiency, and collaboration within procurement processes. Key Words: Supplier Qualification Screening, Competitive Bidding, Supplier Evaluation, Project Performance