Country: Zimbabwe
Executing Agency: Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion
Project: Institutional Support for Governance and Public Finance Management Project (GPFM)
Financed by: African Development Bank
In a significant step towards enhancing transparency and efficiency in Zimbabwe’s public procurement processes, the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion has officially published the award of a consultancy contract for an in-depth assessment of the country’s public procurement system. The consultancy services will be funded through a loan/grant from the African Development Bank (AfDB), under the Institutional Support for Governance and Public Finance Management Project (GPFM).
The selected consultant for this critical project is Allison Anthony, an international procurement lawyer based in the United States. The scope of the contract involves utilizing the Methodology for Assessing Procurement Systems (MAPS), a globally recognized framework, to evaluate the current state of Zimbabwe’s public procurement system. The findings from this assessment will serve as the foundation for future reforms aimed at enhancing governance, transparency, and efficiency in public sector procurement.
Objective of the Consultancy
The primary goal of the consultancy is to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of Zimbabwe's public procurement system, with a particular focus on identifying gaps, inefficiencies, and areas where improvements can be made. The MAPS methodology will be used to assess how well the country’s procurement practices align with international best practices, and how they can be optimized for better outcomes in public finance management.
This assessment is crucial as Zimbabwe continues its efforts to strengthen public governance, promote accountability, and ensure that procurement processes are carried out transparently and efficiently. The results of this assessment will not only help Zimbabwe meet international procurement standards but also contribute to enhancing the country's competitiveness and attractiveness to both local and international investors.
Procurement Process and Transparency
The consultancy contract was awarded through a Direct Procurement method, a procedure where the contract is offered to a selected consultant without a competitive bidding process. This method was likely chosen due to the specialized nature of the consultancy and the expertise required for the assessment.
The publication of this contract award aligns with Zimbabwe's commitment to enhancing transparency in government procurement. The Ministry of Finance has made it clear that any consultants wishing to understand the rationale behind the selection decision can request an explanation from the Executing Agency. The African Development Bank has also emphasized its commitment to ensuring a transparent process and reserves the right to review any complaints or challenges regarding the award.
Implications for Zimbabwe’s Procurement System
The MAPS assessment is expected to have far-reaching implications for Zimbabwe’s public procurement system. By identifying existing weaknesses and proposing targeted reforms, the consultancy aims to enhance efficiency, reduce corruption, and improve the overall governance of public procurement in Zimbabwe. This is a crucial step in building a procurement system that not only meets international standards but also contributes to the country’s broader economic development goals.
Moreover, this project will serve as a key component in Zimbabwe’s broader efforts to strengthen its **public finance management** and governance structures. Improved procurement practices will contribute to better management of public funds, ensuring that government projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
Summary of Contract Details:
- Consultant Name: Allison Anthony
- Nationality: American
- Contract Duration: 25 days (17 September 2025 to December 2026)
- Scope: Assessment of Zimbabwe’s public procurement system using the MAPS methodology
- Total Number of Proposals Received: 1
- Selection Method: Direct Procurement
- Approval Date: 11 September 2025
Zimbabwe’s public procurement reform journey is just beginning, and this contract award marks a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to build a more transparent, efficient, and competitive procurement environment.
