In a recent conversation on Mwelekeo TV, Sarah Cindy sat down with Kevin Waswa, a procurement and supply chain expert, to talk about how digital tools are changing the way governments and organizations buy goods and services.
The discussion focused on what many people might not fully understand yet: the shift toward e-procurement and other digital systems in Kenya and across Africa.
Kevin explained things in a clear way, drawing from his own experience of more than ten years in the field.
He has an undergraduate and master’s degree in procurement from the University of Nairobi and is now working toward his PhD.
Procurement, as Kevin described it, is basically the process of moving goods from manufacturers through distributors and suppliers until they reach the final user or consumer.
It follows strict rules and regulations to make sure everything is done fairly. He gave a simple example: if you want to buy a watch, there is a whole cycle involved from identifying what you need, finding suppliers, negotiating terms, to making the payment and receiving the item.
In the past, this process often relied on paper documents, physical meetings, and manual checks, which could take a lot of time and leave room for delays or even unfair practices.
Today, digital innovation is reshaping this entire cycle. Kevin pointed out that tools like e-procurement platforms, electronic databases, enterprise resource planning systems (ERPs), and customer relationship platforms are making things much smoother.
These systems allow for e-catalogs where suppliers list their products online, e-invoicing for quick payments, and e-submissions so bids can be sent electronically.
One of the biggest advantages is the boost in transparency. With real-time data and user-friendly interfaces, it becomes harder for corruption to hide because everyone can see what is happening at each step.
Efficiency also improves a great deal. Decisions can be made faster because information is available instantly instead of waiting for files to move from one desk to another.
Cost savings come in because organizations can compare prices more easily and avoid unnecessary expenses.
Kevin also mentioned how these digital systems support sustainability by reducing paperwork and helping track environmental factors in supply chains. For governments, this means better service delivery to citizens, as projects and supplies can reach people quicker.
Another important point was how digital procurement opens doors for more people. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs), youth, and young entrepreneurs now have a better chance to participate because online platforms lower some of the traditional barriers.
Instead of needing big connections or traveling long distances to submit tenders, qualified businesses can compete from anywhere. This can help grow the economy and create more opportunities, especially in a country like Kenya where many young people are looking for ways to get into business.
Of course, the change is not without challenges. Kevin was honest about the difficulties organizations face when adopting new systems. Some people resist because they are used to the old ways of doing things.
Training becomes very important so that staff know how to use the platforms properly. There is also the need for careful pilot testing before rolling out changes across the board. Cybersecurity is another concern, as digital systems can be targets for attacks if not well protected.
Kevin stressed that while technology helps reduce human error and corruption risks, final decisions still need human oversight to handle complex situations.Looking to the future, Kevin believes technology, including artificial intelligence and automation, will play an even bigger role.
Data analytics can help predict needs, manage stocks better, and spot problems early. He noted that in the short term, some jobs might be affected as routine tasks get automated for example, companies like Amazon have laid off thousands of workers while shifting to more digital operations.
But in the long run, he sees digital procurement leading to stronger, more sustainable systems that support economic growth and better governance. Organizations that adapt quickly will have an advantage, and professionals who learn new skills will stay relevant.
The conversation highlighted how procurement connects directly to everyday life. When governments buy goods and services efficiently, it affects public projects like roads, hospitals, and schools. It influences national development and how public money is spent. For business owners, students, policymakers, and ordinary citizens, understanding these changes matters because they shape opportunities in the digital economy.
This discussion from Mwelekeo TV gives a balanced view of both the opportunities and the practical steps needed to make digital transformation work. It shows that procurement is no longer just about buying things it has become a key part of building a more transparent, efficient, and modern economy.
