Procurement Crisis Hits Health

.... Non-compliance with legal procurement standards threatens healthcare delivery.

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia24 – (15-04-2025) – The Zambia Institute of Purchasing and Supply (ZIPS) has expressed deep concern over revelations of mismanagement in the procurement and handling of medical supplies within the Ministry of Health—a situation that has sparked widespread public alarm and urgent calls for corrective action.

Daniel Kabamba, President of ZIPS, told journalists during a briefing at the ZIPS Secretariat in Lusaka that the root cause of the crisis is the appointment of non-certified personnel to manage procurement and inventory functions in critical health institutions.

This practice blatantly violates both the Public Procurement Act and the Zambia Institute of Purchasing and Supply Act, which mandate that only certified professionals should oversee these vital processes.

“The management of medical supplies is a critical national function that demands professionalism, transparency, and strict adherence to the law,” Kabamba said.

“It is unacceptable that unqualified individuals are entrusted with such responsibilities in health institutions, putting lives at risk.”

Kabamba went further to identify specific gaps and concerns ZIPS has uncovered in its engagements with stakeholders.

“We’ve identified key stakeholders — notable individuals and authorities — especially those based downstairs,” Kabamba said, referring to officials in key ministries and implementing departments. 

“These are the people we’re targeting, and here’s why: they are decision-makers. They influence policies and give directives.”

 “Now, I was recently having a discussion with stakeholders in Totota. We have 116 active cases or issues, but when we zoom out and consider the broader concerns — particularly from ministerial departments — the total number stands at over 800. That’s significant.”

Kabamba outlined three major issues plaguing procurement in the health sector:

1. Storage and Health Program Logistics:

“One of the most critical challenges we're facing is the flow of goods — especially donations — and how they’re managed.

There’s no problem on the supply side; we are receiving materials, including equipment and medical items. However, the major bottleneck is storage,” he said.

2. Capacity Gaps and Wasted Expertise:

“There are trained professionals, even experts, who have been overlooked — especially in Eastern regions. These are individuals who could add value, but they are being left out of implementation processes,” he lamented.

3. Legal Framework Ignored:

 “Our recommendations are backed by law — specifically Section 25 of the Public Procurement Act. The law is very clear on roles and responsibilities, yet those tasked with enforcement are not being held accountable. That lack of oversight exposes us all to risks. If systems are in place but not being enforced, then what’s the point?” he questioned.

ZIPS has thrown its weight behind the government and international partners, including the United States, who have also raised serious concerns about procurement deficiencies in the health sector.

The Institute recommends urgent reforms through a collaborative approach involving procurement experts, pharmacists, finance officers, and storekeepers to establish clear roles, responsibilities, and accountability frameworks.

Further, ZIPS demands the strict enforcement of existing legislation, such as the Pharmaceutical and Allied Substances Act No. 3 of 2013 and Section 25 of the Public Procurement Act, to ensure that only ZIPS-certified professionals manage public medical stores. This is vital for guaranteeing traceability, stock integrity, and full accountability.

Beyond the health sector crisis, ZIPS also highlighted broader national procurement challenges.

The Institute supports increasing the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to boost decentralization but stresses that procurement processes at the constituency level must be strengthened. 

This includes capacity building for local suppliers and procurement committees to improve transparency and efficiency.

Regarding the ongoing constitutional reform process, ZIPS welcomes amendments that could positively affect procurement and supply chain management but warns against risks such as increased political interference in local procurement.

The Institute also calls for addressing legal contradictions between the Constitution and procurement laws, automation of procurement and inventory systems through the Smart Zambia Institute, and the creation of a comprehensive National Procurement Policy.

ZIPS further reported on its recent nationwide training workshops for procurement committees, aimed at enhancing the professionalism and accountability of those responsible for public procurement decisions. 

These efforts are part of a broader mission to promote efficiency and integrity in public procurement.

Looking ahead, ZIPS announced that the 13th National Conference will take place in July, with President Hakainde Hichilema expected to attend as Guest of Honour, providing a platform for high-level dialogue on these pressing issues.

Kabamba concluded by reaffirming ZIPS’s commitment to advising government, supporting reforms, and ensuring procurement becomes a true enabler of development and inclusive economic growth.