The Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to reforming public procurement systems through the development of a Sustainable Public Procurement and Disposal Policy aimed at aligning procurement practices with national development priorities. 

Speaking during a stakeholders’ engagement meeting, PPDA’s Acting Director General Timothy Kalembo said the initiative marks a significant step towards ensuring that procurement contributes meaningfully to Malawi’s long-term sustainability goals.

Kalembo emphasized that the policy is anchored in the legal mandate provided under the PPDA Act of 2024, which empowers the authority to guide procurement practices and develop relevant policies.

“This initiative goes beyond compliance. It is a deliberate step towards transforming how public procurement contributes to national development,” he said, noting that the reforms are aligned with the aspirations of the Malawi 2063.

He further highlighted the integration of sustainability efforts with the Malawi National Electronic Procurement System (MANePS), describing the two as mutually reinforcing. 

“Digital transformation and sustainability are not separate agendas; they are complementary and mutually reinforcing,” Kalembo stated, adding that the policy development process is being undertaken in full alignment with the MANePS framework to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability.

According to Kalembo, the policy development process involves a comprehensive review of the current procurement and disposal landscape, benchmarking international best practices, and the creation of a robust policy framework supported by practical tools and guidelines. 

“We are also designing and delivering comprehensive training programmes because systems are only as effective as the people who use them,” he explained, underscoring the importance of capacity building in ensuring successful implementation.

He described the stakeholders’ meeting as a crucial platform for collaboration and co-creation, calling on participants to contribute their expertise and experiences.

Led by the consultants, similar consultations will be done in Blantyre and Mzuzu.