Procurement planning and performance of procurement and disposal units in Uganda: A case of Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs (MODVA)

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between procurement planning and performance of the MODVA PDU. It specifically examined the relationship between procurement needs assessment and performance, procurement budgeting and performance and, compliance with procurement planning procedures and performance of the MODVA PDU. The study adopted a cross-sectional study design and a selected size of 44 was used. Primary data was collected from procurement officers and staff from accounts/ finance department using both questionnaires and interview guide. Secondary data was mainly got from annual reports, manuals, PPDA Act, 2003, policy guidelines and journals among others. The data analysis was done using regression and correlation models to test the predetermined hypotheses of this study. Based on the data analysis results, it was found that procurement compliance in accordance with PPDA Act, 2003, spending within acceptable budgets and delivery time were significantly related to procurement needs assessment, procurement budgeting and compliance with procurement planning procedures and methods by the MODVA PDU. The implication here was that the independent variables will significantly affect the level of performance levels of the PDU positively if they were handled and managed in accordance with the PPDA Act, 2003. It was concluded that adhering to the procurement planning procedures and methods as prescribed by the PPDA Act, 2003; empowering the PDU procurement officers, training them on public procurement laws, policies, regulations and policy guidelines especially the PPDA Act, 2003 will enable them to independently handle and management procurement needs assessment and budgeting and in compliance with procurement planning procedures and methods and improve the overall performance of the MODVA PDU. The study recommends that PDUs in Uganda should train and sensitize procurement and tendering/contract committee members, suppliers, bidders/ contractors on appropriate procurement procedures and practices as required the PPDA Act, 2003 to enhance compliance with the Act, reduce costs and enhance timely delivery. The researcher recommends further research in the following areas; public procurement policy guidelines and performance, corruption in PDUs and performance and, procurement budgeting and performance of PDUs in Uganda.