LET’S TALK GEN-Zs IN UGANDA’S PUBLIC PROCUREMENT

Let’s Talk Gen-Zs in Uganda’s Public Procurement

By David Matovu

As Generation Z enters Uganda’s workforce, they bring with them a wave of change poised to reshape public procurement. Born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, Gen-Zs are digital natives and thus socially conscious. Their unique traits and perspectives are set to revolutionize public procurement in Uganda, driving innovation and ethical practices associated with information technology.

Embracing Digital Transformation
Generation Z’s proficiency with technology is one of their most defining characteristics. Having grown up in the digital age, they are adept at utilizing advanced digital tools and platforms. In Uganda, this means a more seamless adoption of e-procurement systems and data analytics in public procurement processes. Gen-Z professionals will likely champion the integration of blockchain technology to enhance transparency, artificial intelligence to optimize procurement processes, and big data analytics to inform decision-making.
For instance, the ongoing reengineering of Uganda’s Electronic Government Procurement (eGP) system could greatly benefit from Gen-Z’s technological skills. Their input can lead to a more efficient and user-friendly system, reducing procurement cycle times and increasing transparency.

Transparency and Ethical Standards
While skepticism persists regarding the integrity of Generation Z compared to previous generations, it’s important to recognize that each cohort brings its own strengths and challenges. This generation is not only tech-savvy but also socially aware, and should thus advocate for accountability in public procurement.
Their inherent distrust of opaque processes may actually drive them to uphold higher standards and challenge the status quo. By embracing technology, Gen-Z can foster a culture of integrity in Uganda’s public procurement, encouraging improvements that may mitigate the very corruption their predecessors faced.

Social Responsibility and Sustainable Procurement
Gen-Z is known for its social consciousness, with a strong focus on issues like climate change, social justice, and equality. In Uganda, this means that Gen-Z procurement professionals will prioritize sustainable and socially responsible procurement practices. They will advocate for suppliers who follow ethical labor practices, employ environmentally friendly production methods, and engage in corporate social responsibility.
This focus on sustainability can drive Uganda’s public procurement towards more eco-friendly and socially responsible practices. Policies that prioritize local and sustainable procurement can lead to significant positive impacts on the economy and environment.

Addressing Challenges and Seizing Opportunities
The integration of Gen-Z into Uganda’s public procurement landscape presents both opportunities and challenges. Traditional procurement systems and practices may struggle to adapt to the innovative approaches and technological advancements championed by Gen-Z. Resistance to change from older generations within the sector could also pose a challenge.
To fully harness the potential of Gen-Z, Uganda must create an environment that encourages innovation and embraces new ideas. This can be achieved through several strategies:

1. Training and Development: Providing comprehensive training programs to enhance the digital skills of all procurement professionals, fostering an understanding of new technologies and methodologies.
2. Mentorship Programs: Establishing mentorship initiatives where experienced procurement officers can guide Gen-Z professionals while also learning from their technological expertise.
3. Policy Reforms: Implementing policy reforms that support the integration of sustainable and ethical procurement practices.
4. Collaborative Platforms: Creating platforms for cross-generational collaboration and knowledge sharing, bridging the gap between traditional practices and innovative approaches.

The entry of Gen-Z into Uganda’s public procurement sector is a promising development that could lead to significant improvements in efficiency, transparency, and sustainability. By leveraging their technological prowess, and social consciousness, Gen-Z procurement professionals have the potential to drive meaningful change. Embracing this generational shift and fostering an enabling environment for their growth and contributions will be key to the future success of public procurement in Uganda.

The writer is a Senior Officer of Corporate and Public Affairs at Uganda’s Public Procurement Regulator, PPDA.