The Central Procurement Board of Namibia (CPBN) has raised concerns about the challenges faced by bidders, particularly those who are disqualified for reasons that could have easily been rectified, preventing them from advancing to the financial stage of the bid evaluation process. 

Speaking at the bidders' education campaign, its Board Chairperson, Mary Shiimi, emphasised the crucial role the institution plays in clarifying any confusion surrounding the procurement process. 

The CPBN received numerous complaints over the years about delays in the awarding of tenders, often due to bidders submitting false or fraudulent information.

This has led to lengthy verification processes, slowing down the resolution of procurement matters.

Shiimi therefore stressed the need for investments to deliver the intended value. 

She also raised an alarm that over 50% of bidders are disqualified for easily avoidable reasons, preventing them from advancing to the financial stage of the bid evaluation process.

This affects, especially, small and medium enterprises.

"I am concerned when bids are stuck in courts and services do not reach the public who so much needs them. I am concerned. Public procurement is a cornerstone of good governance and economic development. It is the bridge that connects public needs with the capacities of the Namibian private sector, ensuring that government resources are effectively utilised to bring services to the people that most need them. However, for this system to function optimally, it requires the trust and active participation of all stakeholders involved, government entities, businesses, and the public alike."

As a response to a growing call for better practices, transparency, more clarity and fairness, the CPBN has launched a Bidders Education Campaign to address the grievances of bidders and to provide much-needed solutions to public entities and the general public.

Shiimi added that "There has been a significant level of unhappiness from bidders and our clients emanating from increasing unfavourable outcomes from the procurement process. So, we embark on a journey to clarify the procurement process, to open doors that have been perceived as closed, and to build bridges where there have been gaps. Our Public and Bidders Education Campaign is designed to empower all participants with the knowledge and tools they need to engage effectively in procurement activities."

Shiimi stated that the success of the campaign lies in the involvement of all stakeholders, urging them to engage CPBN through various social media platforms and to send communications via the provided email address to hold the institution accountable to the highest standards of integrity.