The Minister of Finance and Development Planning has urged procurement specialists to deliver good, fair and transparent services to the public at all times.

Addressing participants at a one-day Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) conference in Maseru on Monday, Dr Timothy Thahane said procurement is one important element of service delivery in the purchase and supply chain, hence need to be done properly.

He noted that it is through procurement that small businesses in the country are empowered as the purchase and supply chain promotes better accumulation and circulation of money thus boosting the country’s economy.

Dr Thahane noted that since the government utilizes public funds and taxes in its budgets, it is important to ensure that the procurement is open and fair to everybody.

He therefore appealed to the participants to purchase and supply goods and services needed in time and also to pay service providers in time to avoid complaints and misunderstandings.

He commented that government is concerned about payment delays by government departments as it has caused suppliers to charge government large amounts than other clients in the public sector, saying government is determined to address the situation.

Dr Thahane stated that the 2007 Procurement Regulation is targeted to improve the procurement system through decentralisation, adding that loyalty is a major tool needed in the new system.

The conference has been organised by the CIPS in collaboration with the Institute for Development Management (IDM).

Source: LENA 05/11/2007