The Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) has expressed concern over the increasing number of complaints from suppliers, contractors, and service providers regarding delayed and unpaid bills for goods, works, and services delivered to county governments.
Speaking on behalf of the Authority, The Public Procurement Regulatory Board (PPRB) Chairman, Hon. Mwangi Wa Iria, has called for immediate action by county governments to address the backlog of unpaid invoices, saying that failure to honour contractual obligations is a violation of the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Actand a direct threat to Kenya’s economic growth and financial stability
“We cannot continue to ignore the severe impact that delayed payments have on businesses, particularly Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which form the backbone of our economy,” stated Hon Mwangi Wa Iria.
“This situation is crippling businesses, stalling projects, discouraging investment, and in some cases, leading to extreme social consequences, including business closures, mental health struggles, and even loss of life.” He added.
Hon. Mwangi Wa Iria noted an alarming trend where transitions in county leadership have been used as a pretext to dishonour payments for duly contracted and completed projects which is a violation of section 176 of the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act. He further reminded county Accounting Officers of their legal duty to ensure that payments are made within the stipulated contractual periods.
To enhance transparency and accountability, the Authority has launched an online Complaints Management System (CMS), where affected suppliers, contractors, and service providers can report overdue payments and procurement violations. The system is accessible at: https://cms.ppra.go.ke
Hon. Mwangi Wa Iria urged all suppliers, contractors, and service providers facing delayed payments to lodge their complaints through the Complaints Management System for intervention.
He further specified that the Authority is closely monitoring compliance and will hold individual Accounting Officers accountable where evidence shows deliberate non-payment of contracts. The Authority will escalate cases of non-compliance to relevant enforcement agencies for necessary action.
“Public procurement must serve as an engine for economic growth, not a source of financial distress,” he emphasized. “I therefore urge all county governments to act immediately and ensure that payments are processed without further delay. “We will not tolerate instances where public officers deliberately frustrate suppliers. Those responsible for non-payment of legitimate invoices will be held accountable,” he added.
“The Authority is also analyzing judicial decisions on procurement disputes, ensuring accountability in contract execution and payment processes”, he said.
“The Public Procurement Regulatory Authority remains committed to fostering a transparent, efficient, and accountable procurement system that aligns with national development goals and supports business sustainability”. he said.
