Allexer Namundjembo
The Central Procurement Board of Namibia (CPBN) has introduced new procedures for appointing Bid Evaluation Committee members to improve transparency and accountability in public procurement.
According to CPBN, these changes aim to enhance service delivery and reinforce the evaluation process for public bids.
“These strengthened procedures are aimed at promoting integrity, fair dealing, transparency and efficiency in the public procurement process,” said CPBN spokesperson Johanna Kambala.
The changes are guided by the Public Procurement Act, which allows CPBN to appoint individuals, including those nominated by public entities, to serve on bid evaluation committees.
The board sets up ad hoc committees made up of members from the public who are not CPBN employees.
Kambala said the new process is meant to ensure that those evaluating bids have the right skills.
“This enhanced process ensures that individuals entrusted with evaluating public bids are well trained, possess the necessary technical expertise and can complete the evaluation process efficiently,” she said.
The new rules introduce stricter requirements. Applicants must have qualifications approved by the Namibia Qualifications Authority (NQA) and provide a certificate of conduct from the Namibian Police.
Applicants must also complete structured training and pass a competency assessment before appointment.
They must confirm they are available to serve throughout the evaluation period. Their performance will also be reviewed.
“The appointment of BEC members will take into account the nature, complexity and technical specifications of each bid,” Kambala said.
CPBN said the changes are expected to improve trust in procurement processes, which have faced concerns over fairness and transparency.
The board has asked interested members of the public to prepare their documents ahead of the next call for applications.
