FACTORS AFFECTING PROFESSIONALISM PRACTICES IN PUBLIC PROCUREMENT IN TANZANIA: A CASE OF KIGAMBONI MUNICIPALITY

Abstract

ABSTRACT In Tanzania, the enactment of the Public Procurement Act and its Regulations was a significant reform aimed at promoting efficiency, effectiveness, accountability, and value for money in public procurement. However, persistent irregularities such as poor specification of goods, the availability of counterfeit items, and a lack of coordination have led to delays in service delivery, highlighting a lack of compliance with professionalism requirements. This study therefore sought to assess the factors affecting professionalism practices in public procurement, specifically examining the effect of staff competency, the legislative framework, and management support. The study, guided by institutional theory and a mixed-methods approach, was conducted at the Kigamboni Municipal Council. A stratified sampling technique was used to select a sample of 200 respondents, with 193 completing the questionnaires. Data were collected through questionnaires and interviews, and analysed using descriptive analysis, multiple linear regression, and content analysis. The findings revealed that staff competency, the legislative framework, and management support all have a significant positive influence on professionalism. Management support was identified as the most critical factor, holding the strongest influence on the outcome. The study concluded that while a robust legislative framework exists, its full potential is constrained by a lack of consistent enforcement of sanctions for non-compliance. The recommendations, therefore, advocate for strengthened management support, a formal policy for continuous staff development, and more rigorous enforcement of procurement regulations to enhance professionalism and mitigate irregularities.