Consulting Engineers South Africa (CESA) CEO Chris Campbell highlighted the need for consistent procurement practices to enhance service delivery during a panel discussion at the 87th Institute of Municipal Engineering of Southern Africa (IMESA) Conference and Exhibition in Cape Town. Campbell was part of a panel discussion on South Africa’s new Public Procurement Bill.

Campbell emphasised that standardised procurement practices across government levels are crucial for improving interactions with service providers and ensuring efficient, high-quality service delivery. “In a developing country with a broad range of service providers, consistency in procurement is essential. Without it, doing business with the state becomes complex and can hinder effective service delivery.”  He pointed out how varying procurement criteria can create challenges for firms, making it difficult for them to align their operations with government requirements.

Further, he also raised the issue of balancing local government autonomy with the need for standardised procurement practices. While local governments value flexibility, he stressed that this should not come at the expense of streamlined, efficient procurement systems. “We risk creating an environment that hinders effective service delivery if we don’t establish coherent guidelines that all entities can follow,” he added, advocating for a more consistent approach that simplifies processes.

In addressing the impact of competitive pricing on service quality, Campbell noted, “Overly aggressive competition often leads to compromises in quality, which ultimately affects service delivery.” He warned that without uniform procurement standards – such as clear criteria for empowerment initiatives – firms may struggle to maintain competitiveness while delivering on quality.

Added to this, Campbell highlighted the importance of skilled procurement officials who understand both the administrative and technical aspects of procurement in the public sector. “Effective procurement requires professionals who are not only versed in process but who also understand the specific technical requirements of the services being sourced,” he said. He called for a strategic, competency-based approach to procurement that extends beyond basic compliance, focusing instead on how procurement decisions can support efficient service delivery.