Introduction

The Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PRAZ) is the official body responsible for regulating and supervising public procurement across all government institutions, public entities, state-owned enterprises, and local authorities. Established under the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act, PRAZ exists to ensure that public procurement in Zimbabwe is conducted transparently, competitively, and in a manner that promotes accountability in the use of public funds.

As Zimbabwe continues to modernize its procurement systems and attract both local and foreign investors, understanding the role of PRAZ has become essential for any business intending to participate in public tenders.

The Establishment and Mandate of PRAZ

Legislative Background

PRAZ was created through the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act, which replaced the former State Procurement Board. The reform decentralized procurement activities and transformed the State Procurement Board into a regulatory authority rather than an execution body. Public entities now handle their own procurement, while PRAZ focuses entirely on oversight, regulation, and compliance.

Core Mandate

PRAZ’s mandate includes:

  • Regulating and supervising public procurement activities
  • Promoting transparency, fairness, and competition
  • Ensuring public funds are used efficiently and responsibly
  • Issuing procurement guidelines and compliance standards
  • Conducting investigations and audits
  • Providing training and capacity-building
  • Managing supplier registration

This mandate ensures that every stage of public procurement meets legal and ethical standards.

How PRAZ Regulates Public Procurement in Zimbabwe

Procurement Methods

PRAZ ensures the use of correct and competitive procurement methods, such as:

  • Open tendering
  • Competitive bidding
  • Requests for quotations
  • Restricted tendering (only when justified)
  • Direct procurement in exceptional cases

Public entities must follow these procedures, and PRAZ monitors their compliance.

Monitoring and Compliance

PRAZ regularly audits and reviews procurement records to confirm compliance with the Act. Any deviations or breaches can lead to investigations, penalties, or cancellation of procurement processes. This system protects the integrity of public procurement and ensures accountability.

PRAZ Supplier Registration and Its Importance

To participate in public tenders, all suppliers must be registered with PRAZ. Supplier registration helps to:

  • Validate the legitimacy of companies
  • Promote fairness in supplier selection
  • Ensure bidders meet minimum legal and professional requirements

Access to Opportunities

Registered suppliers gain access to:

  • Government tenders
  • State-owned enterprise procurement
  • Local authority procurement notices
  • Procurement updates, guidelines, and training

For businesses looking to grow through public contracts, PRAZ registration is a crucial step.

PRAZ’s Role in Promoting Transparency and Fair Competition

Publication of Procurement Information

PRAZ ensures that procurement opportunities, contract awards, and public notices are made available to all suppliers. This prevents favoritism and creates equal access to tender information.

Handling Complaints and Disputes

If suppliers believe a tender process was unfair or violated procurement regulations, PRAZ provides formal channels for complaints. It investigates disputes and ensures that corrective action is taken where necessary. This builds confidence among both local and foreign businesses.

Training and Capacity-Building

PRAZ plays an active role in educating procurement professionals and suppliers. The authority offers:

  • Workshops and training programs
  • Procurement guidelines and manuals
  • Capacity-building for public entities
  • Advisory services for businesses

This training reduces procedural errors and enhances efficiency in public procurement across Zimbabwe.

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PRAZ Requirements for Foreign Companies

Foreign companies interested in participating in Zimbabwean tenders must comply with PRAZ requirements, which may include:

  • Local company registration
  • PRAZ supplier registration
  • Tax compliance (ZIMRA tax clearance)
  • Sector-specific licensing
  • Compliance with procurement guidelines

In some cases, foreign suppliers may partner with local companies to meet eligibility requirements. PRAZ ensures that foreign bidders participate in a structured, transparent environment.

The Importance of PRAZ to Zimbabwe’s Economic Development

Ensuring Responsible Use of Public Funds

Government procurement accounts for a large portion of national expenditure. PRAZ helps ensure that public resources are used effectively and that infrastructure projects deliver value for money.

Enhancing Investor Confidence

A transparent procurement system attracts investment. PRAZ’s role in eliminating corruption and enhancing fairness makes Zimbabwe’s public procurement environment more predictable and trustworthy.

Supporting National Development

By enforcing proper procurement procedures, PRAZ supports key national priorities, including:

  • Infrastructure development
  • Public service delivery
  • Economic modernization
  • Job creation through procurement opportunities

Conclusion

PRAZ plays a critical role in shaping Zimbabwe’s public procurement landscape. From regulating procurement processes and ensuring transparency to handling supplier complaints and promoting fair competition, the authority is central to the responsible use of public funds. For both local and foreign businesses, understanding PRAZ’s requirements and processes is essential to successfully participate in Zimbabwe’s public tendering system.

Whether you are a startup, an established local company, or a foreign investor seeking to enter the Zimbabwean market, PRAZ provides the regulatory framework that supports fairness, accountability, and efficiency in public procurement.