A Dissertation Submitted in Partial/ Fulfillment of the Requirements for Award
of the Degree of Masters of Science in Procurement (MSc PSCM) of Mzumbe
University
The objective of the dissertation is to assess the Public Procurement Act 2004 in
empowering domestic firms in Tanzania. The study was set out specifically to
examine the awareness of procurement professionals and supply side; procedure for
procurement and factors specified in the Act for encouraging participation of
domestic firms in public procurement market.
The research methodology that was adopted is this study is case study design. The
choice of this methodology was influenced by the nature of the study and timeframe
to undertake the project. The study was conducted in selected institutions in Dar es
Salaam region where large volume of procurement activities takes place and
accessibility of respondents. Data from population of 40 respondents comprising of
procurement professionals, engineers, consultants and contractors was collected
through questionnaire, analyzed and presented statistically and graphically.
Based on the findings from the study it is concluded that procurement professionals
are aware of provisions for empowering domestic firms though, are less conversant
on implementation or compliance with the Act; conversely awareness on supply side
is limited; procedures for tendering, selecting and awarding tender are clear and
conducive for encouraging domestic enterprises; margin of preference, bid securing
declaration; packaging (splitting) of contracts are significant measures for
empowering domestics firms while tendering document in Kiswahili is insignificant
factor for fostering participation of local suppliers in public procurement market.
The outcome of the study calls for institutions responsible for overseeing
procurement system in Tanzania, to take concerted efforts to enhance capacity to
procurement professionals. Awareness campaign coupled with training in public
procurement to supply side is required to stimulate the participation of domestic
enterprises in public procurement. Lastly, enforcement of law on empowering
domestic firms through PPA 2004 should be in place.