By Siphesihle Dlamini
Sabela Dlamini has been appointed as the new chairperson of the Eswatini Public Procurement Regulatory Agency (ESPPRA).
The announcement was made by the Minister of Finance, Hon. Neal Rijkenberg, during a formal introduction of the newly appointed Board of Directors for the agency.
The ESPPRA Board, now led by Dlamini, is tasked with providing crucial oversight and ensuring that procurement policies align with best practices.
This appointment comes at a critical time for the Kingdom, as the agency aims to promote integrity within procurement processes and stimulate growth and innovation across the private sector, ultimately driving Eswatini’s economic development.
The newly appointed board members other board members consist of Thulile Dube (member), Nakekelo Ginindza (member), and Wellington Motsa (member).
Minister Rijkenberg emphasized the importance of the board’s role in aligning procurement practices with international standards.
“The expertise and efforts of the members of this board will be instrumental in promoting integrity within procurement processes,” he stated.
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He further expressed confidence that the board would foster an environment conducive to growth and innovation within the private sector, thereby contributing positively to Eswatini’s economic landscape.
Established on May 27, 2013, ESPPRA was born out of the Public Procurement Act No. 7 of 2011, which aimed to create an independent regulatory body with a focus on policy formulation, regulation, oversight, and capacity building in public procurement.
The agency operates as a Category A public enterprise, reporting administratively to the Ministry of Finance.
The Procurement Act No. 7 of 2011 empowered ESPPRA with a broad mandate, allowing the agency to engage in professional development, information management, and dissemination in the field of public procurement.
This comprehensive framework is designed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of procurement practices within the Kingdom, ensuring that public resources are utilized optimally for the benefit of all citizens.
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Chairperson Sabela Dlamini brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role. His leadership is expected to guide the board in navigating the complexities of public procurement while ensuring that ethical standards are upheld.
Dlamini’s vision includes fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors to enhance procurement processes and drive economic growth.
The appointment of the new board members is seen as a strategic move to revitalize the agency’s operations and reinforce its commitment to transparency and accountability.
By aligning procurement policies with global best practices, ESPPRA aims to build public trust and confidence in government procurement activities.
