ZPPA concerned with lack of transparency in utilization of public resources

The Zambia Public Procurement Authority (ZPPA) says the continued lack of transparency and prudence in the utilization and management of public resources by those entrusted with these resources is a source of concern to the government.

ZPPA Board Chairperson Richard Chizyuka notes that this has caused successive governments to lose out on resources which are meant to bring socio-economic development to the people and the communities they live in.

Speaking in Lusaka during the launch of the Drawings, Bills of Quantities and Material Schedules for Selected Buildings under Constituency Development Fund (CDF) funded projects; Mr Chizyuka says the Authority is optimistic that the use of Standard Drawings, Bills of Quantities and Material Schedules will contribute to the efficient use of public resources. 

He says the documents are also expected to improve transparency in procurement proceedings, economic use of CDF funds and improve quality and timely delivery of works, whilst ensuring adherence to the fundamental principles of public procurement. 

Mr Chizyuka notes that the development is in line with repeated calls by President Hakainde Hichilema on the need to incorporate prudence in the management of public resources. 

Speaking at the same event, Permanent Secretary for Administration in the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, Mambo Hamaundu has directed all local authorities to use the launched documents as they implement CDF infrastructure projects.

Mr. Hamaundu says the Ministry will use the documents as an addendum to the CDF guidelines that were launched in February this year.