East African Procurement Leaders Gather in Juba for 17th Regional Forum

(Photo Credit: Alfadil Attiya / File)

By: Alfadil Attiya Abuanja

The Bank of South Sudan is officially hosting the 17th East African Procurement Forum in Juba, bringing together regional stakeholders to discuss ways of strengthening transparency and accountability in public procurement systems.

The four-day forum, running from May 11 to 14, 2026, is being held under the theme: “Enhancing Beneficial Ownership Disclosure in Public Procurement Systems.” The event has attracted delegates from member states of the East African Community, including representatives from government institutions, civil society organizations, training institutions, professional bodies, and the private sector.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Vice President and Chairperson of the Economic Cluster, James Wani Igga, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening procurement systems as part of broader efforts to fight corruption and improve public service delivery.

He emphasized the importance of transparency, efficiency, accountability, and accuracy in managing public resources, noting that stronger procurement systems are essential for economic growth and regional integration.

The forum is expected to provide a platform for experience-sharing among East African countries while exploring strategies to harmonize procurement policies and improve beneficial ownership disclosure across the region.

Among the senior officials attending the event are the Minister of East African Community Affairs, Pieng Deng Kuol; Minister of Finance and Planning, Kuol Daniel Ayulo; First Deputy Governor for Policy and Banking at the Bank of South Sudan, Tong Akec; and First Undersecretary of Finance, Malual Tap Dieu, alongside other senior government officials and regional delegates.

The annual procurement forum serves as a key regional platform for promoting best practices and enhancing cooperation among East African countries in public procurement management.