In a new bill proposed by Embakasi Central Member of Parliament, Mejjadonk Benjamin Gathiru, Kenyans can benefit from government tenders previously offered to foreign investors.
The proposed Public Procurement and Asset Disposal (Amendment) Bill, 2022, will see Kenyans contribute to mega infrastructural projects.
According to the bill, Kenyans will be given exclusive preferences over foreigners in the allocation of between Ksh500 million and Ksh20 billion tenders.
“The principal object of this Bill is to amend the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act 2015 to enhance the amount for tenders where Kenyan citizens are given exclusive preference,” read the bill in parts.
The MP added that the bill aims to protect Kenyan traders from foreign competitors.
If approved, Kenyans will be directly involved in the country’s development, boosting the economy and creating job opportunities.
In the 2015 Act, Gathiru seeks to amend Section 157, highlighting candidates’ participation in preference and reservations.
“To qualify for a specific preference or reservation, a candidate shall provide evidence of eligibility as prescribed,” read part of the Act.
Candidates, the MP adds, shall participate in procurement proceedings without discrimination except where participation is limited in accordance with the Act and the regulations.
Additionally, the Act directs that the authority shall report to Parliament after every six months for consideration by the relevant committee responsible for the equalisation of opportunities.
The Act further prioritises persons and groups previously disadvantaged by competition or discrimination, reservations, and other preferences.
Source: kENYANS.CO.KE