The Electronic Government Procurement System in Uganda; Challenges and Benefits

The Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority of Uganda (PPDA), the primary regulatory body in charge of managing public procurement and the disposal of public assets in the nation, developed the Electronic Government Procurement (e-GP) system, to address issues with the paper-based procurement system. Numerous obstacles prevent Uganda’s public e-procurement or e-GP system installation from becoming effective. This study aimed to investigate the advantages and implementation difficulties of the e-GP system. It used a qualitative research approach, utilizing a desk study review methodology that involved reviewing relevant empirical literature. Data collection was focused consistently on the aim of the research, and the keywords used were specific to the goal of the study. The study identified challenges in three technological, organizational and contextual categories. These challenges include; Inadequate IT & networking infrastructure, Acceptance and usage issues, IT security issues, resistance to change, lack of training and skilled personnel and legal framework as some of the obstacles to the effective implementation of the e-GP system. The system when effectively implemented also has several benefits enhancing, transparency, mitigating the risks of corruption, reducing financial and technological risks, increasing competitiveness, minimizing business effort, offering quality bidding, promptness, cost savings, and lowering the cost of purchasing goods or services at premium pricing. The study recommends investing in infrastructure; developing comprehensive training programs for government staff on e-GP systems, procurement processes, and cybersecurity; Certification and continuous professional development for procurement professionals and Change management strategies to address resistance in order to best maximize its benefits.