PROCUREMENT PRACTICES AND RISK MANAGEMENT IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT; A CASE STUDY OF KANUNGU DISTRICT LOCAL GOVERNMENT
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Date
2025-07-30
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UGANDA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY
Abstract
The study investigated procurement practices and their role in risk
management within Kanungu District Local Government. The objectives of
the study were: to identify the procurement practices employed by Kanungu
District Local Government, to examine the indicators of risk management
within the procurement process in the district, and to evaluate the
contribution of effective procurement practices to risk management. A
descriptive survey design was employed, and data was collected from a
sample of 80 respondents, including procurement officers, district officials,
and service providers engaged in procurement activities. Findings from the
study revealed that while there is some level of transparency and fair
competition in the procurement system, several weaknesses persist, including
limited adoption of e-procurement, unclear procurement policies, and a lack
of emphasis on sustainability and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, the study
found out that although supplier evaluation and monitoring mechanisms exist,
critical elements of risk management such as contingency planning,
performance guarantees, and regular audits were either lacking or not well
institutionalized. This implies that the district remains vulnerable to
procurement inefficiencies and contractor-related risks. Furthermore, while
certain practices like competitive tendering and policy clarity contribute to
mitigating risk, the absence of staff training, ethical standards enforcement,
and integrated risk strategies limits the district’s capacity to manage
procurement-related risks effectively. The study concluded that effective
procurement practices are essential in strengthening risk management
frameworks and improving service delivery. It recommended that Kanungu
District Local Government should adopt clear procurement policies, fully
embrace e-procurement systems, institutionalize regular risk assessments,
and invest in staff training and ethical procurement standards. These
measures are vital for promoting transparency, accountability, and
sustainable procurement, thereby reducing risks and enhancing performance
in public service delivery.
Description
UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH