The Central Procurement Board of Namibia (CPBN) has awarded 86% of procurement contracts, amounting to N$11.8 billion, to local companies between April 1, 2017, and March 31, 2024.
According to procurement data presented to the parliamentary standing committee on economics and public administration, CPBN awarded 193 contracts over the seven-year period.
Of these, 177 contracts valued at N$11.8 billion went to Namibian companies, while five contracts worth N$974.9 million were awarded to joint ventures between Namibian and foreign firms.
Foreign companies secured 11 contracts, representing 7% of the total contracts awarded, with a combined value of N$977.1 million.
“Of these, 177 contracts, representing 86% of the total, were awarded to Namibian companies, amounting to N$11,844,954,478.50. Joint ventures between Namibian and foreign companies secured five contracts, accounting for 7% of the total, with a combined value of N$974,924,919.63,” the report stated.
The report also revealed that since CPBN’s establishment, a total of 28 litigations have been filed against the board. Of these cases, 18 were ruled in CPBN’s favor, four were ruled against, two were settled out of court, three were withdrawn, and one remains pending.
The board, represented by the Government Attorney in legal proceedings, did not disclose the expenses incurred in these litigations but acknowledged the need to improve procurement processes to reduce disputes.
“Litigation and court cases are mostly linked to the interpretation of the Public Procurement Act, in particular the requirements,” the report noted.
To address challenges in the procurement process, CPBN has introduced several initiatives aimed at improving efficiency and reducing human interference.
Among these measures is the automation of internal processes, designed to minimize direct human interaction and limit the potential for manipulation.
The board has also integrated technology into procurement operations, aligning with the Government of Namibia’s National Development Plan (GRN NDP) to enhance efficiency.
Despite these efforts, concerns remain regarding the implementation of the Public Procurement Act. The parliamentary committee noted that CPBN faces human and financial resource constraints, which could impact its ability to fulfill its mandate effectively.
