By Phiwa Sikhondze
The Minister of Finance, Neal Rijkenberg, has issued a call for the professionalization of procurement processes within Eswatini’s public sector, emphasizing the need for procurement to be seen as a strategic function crucial to the nation’s development.
Rijkenberg made these remarks during the Procuring Entities Executives Breakfast Meeting at the Eswatini Public Procurement Symposium, held last week Thursday at Esibayeni Lodge, Matsapha.
Addressing a distinguished audience that included senior government officials, members of the Eswatini Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (ESPPRA), and various procurement executives, the Minister underscored the significant impact that procurement decisions can have on public service delivery, economic development, and the overall quality of life in Eswatini.
Rijkenberg highlighted the urgent need for a shift in how procurement is perceived within government entities. He advocated for a transition from viewing procurement as merely a back-office function to recognizing it as a strategic driver of efficiency, innovation, and value creation.
“In this rapidly changing landscape, the decisions we make in procurement can have a profound impact on the government’s mission to improve public service delivery, foster economic development, and enhance the quality of life for all citizens of Eswatini,” Rijkenberg said.
He further emphasized that aligning procurement practices with the strategic objectives of government organizations is essential to optimizing resource allocation and contributing meaningfully to the country’s socio-economic development.
Central to the Minister’s message was the call for the professionalization of procurement within public entities. He stressed that investing in the development of procurement professionals is critical to ensuring they have the skills, knowledge, and ethical grounding necessary to navigate the complexities of modern procurement.
“To further maximize the impact of procurement, we must also emphasize the need for professionalization within our procuring entities,” Rijkenberg stated.
He argued that a focus on continuous learning and the adoption of best practices would not only enhance procurement capabilities but also ensure that procurement decisions drive value beyond mere cost management.
The Minister pointed out that quality, sustainability, and social responsibility should be integral to procurement practices, aligning with the broader strategic vision of the Eswatini Government.
In closing, Rijkenberg urged the leaders present to embrace the transformative journey ahead. He expressed confidence that with their leadership and commitment, Eswatini can establish a procurement system that is efficient, transparent, and aligned with national goals for the betterment of all emaSwati.
The Eswatini Public Procurement Symposium, organized by ESPPRA, provided a crucial platform for discussing the future of procurement in the country, focusing on strategic alignment and professionalization as key drivers of enhanced public service delivery.