The Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Authority (PPDA) successfully concluded a two-day capacity-building workshop for Procuring and Disposing Entities (PDEs) in the Northern Region. Held at Mzuzu Hotel from 5th to 6th March 2025, the training was designed to enhance compliance, efficiency, and transparency in the procurement and disposal of public assets, aligning with the MW 2063 vision of an inclusive, self-reliant, and industrialized Malawi.

Strengthening Accountability and Transparency in Public Procurement

Speaking at the workshop, PPDA Director General, Dr. Edington Chilapondwa, underscored the critical role of PDEs in safeguarding public resources and promoting sustainable development.

“As custodians of procurement processes, you have the responsibility of ensuring that public resources are utilized effectively and that procurement practices align with the principles of fairness, accountability, and integrity,” said Dr. Chilapondwa.

He further emphasized that transparency in procurement is a key pillar in fostering public trust, ensuring accountability, and minimizing corruption and mismanagement risks, which are essential for achieving MW 2063’s governance and institutional reforms pillar.

The training covered key areas, including the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act, procurement planning, bid submission and evaluation, contract management, disposal of public assets, and ethical standards for public officials involved in procurement. Participants were also trained on the MSME Order 2020 to enhance their understanding of preferential procurement policies that support small businesses.

Impact on Public Procurement and MSME Growth

Denis Mgomezulu from State Advocate Chambers described the training as transformative, stating, “We have learned a lot about conducting procurement processes efficiently. Previously, it was just business as usual without strict adherence to procurement guidelines. This training has equipped us with knowledge that will help us enhance efficiency, transparency, and integrity in our institutions.”

In line with PPDA’s commitment to empowering small businesses, the Authority also conducted a dedicated MSME training session in Mzuzu on 7th March. The session aimed to equip micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) with knowledge on procurement regulations, bid preparation, and participation in government contracts.

Director for Capacity Development and Reforms, Timothy Kalembo, reaffirmed PPDA’s dedication to fostering MSME growth through public procurement.

“As PPDA, we have a mandate to ensure that micro, small, and medium enterprises actively participate in public procurement. The Act provides various preferential measures to support their growth and integration into government business,” he said.

Addressing MSME Challenges and Unlocking Opportunities

Kalembo also highlighted challenges faced by MSMEs, including delayed payments and logistical constraints affecting their compliance with regulatory requirements. Addressing these challenges is vital for enhancing MSME participation and ensuring sustainable economic growth.

Marlyn Munthali from Swaswa Civil and Building Construction acknowledged the importance of the training in bridging the information gap for small businesses.

“This workshop has been an eye-opener for us small and medium businesspeople. Many regulations and procedures have been implemented without sufficient explanation or guidance, and this platform has provided much-needed clarity,” she stated.

Advancing MW 2063 Through Strategic Public Procurement

PPDA’s ongoing capacity-building initiatives directly contribute to the MW 2063 pillars of economic resilience and private sector-led growth by ensuring that procurement processes are transparent, competitive, and inclusive. By equipping PDEs with best practices and strengthening MSMEs’ capacity to participate in government contracts, PPDA is fostering local enterprise growth, job creation, and economic diversification.

PPDA will continue conducting similar workshops nationwide, ensuring that public procurement serves as a catalyst for economic transformation in Malawi. Through these initiatives, the Authority remains committed to enhancing procurement efficiency, fostering MSME development, and driving sustainable economic growth in line with MW 2063’s aspirations.