IMPACT OF DECENTRALIZED E-PROCUREMENT PLATFORMS ON TRANSPARENCY AND SUPPLIER PARTICIPATION IN COUNTY GOVERNMENTS IN KENYA

Robert Kipng’etich Lagat

Abstract


The evolution of public procurement in Kenya has been significantly shaped by the adoption of digital systems, particularly the decentralization of e-procurement platforms across county governments. This study examined the influence of platform accessibility and system efficiency—the two critical dimensions of decentralized e-procurement—on transparency and supplier participation in county-level procurement processes. Guided by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Agency Theory, and Institutional Theory, the study focused on how digital reforms have enhanced (or hindered) fairness, openness, and inclusive supplier engagement in devolved public supply chains. The research adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey design, targeting procurement officers and registered suppliers from four purposively selected counties in Kenya: Nakuru, Kisii, Makueni, and Uasin Gishu. Using stratified random sampling, data were collected from 217 respondents through structured questionnaires. Both descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used, including Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression to examine relationships among the variables. Descriptive results revealed that system efficiency was rated highest (M = 3.84), followed by platform accessibility (M = 3.76), while transparency and supplier participation scored a slightly lower mean (M = 3.69), suggesting persistent gaps in public trust and equitable supplier involvement. Correlation analysis showed moderate positive relationships between the independent and dependent variables (r = 0.578 to 0.645), indicating that improvements in platform design and operational speed were associated with better procurement outcomes. The multiple regression model was statistically significant (F = 110.8, p < 0.001), explaining 64.3% of the variation in transparency and supplier participation. Both platform accessibility (β = 0.373, p < 0.001) and system efficiency (β = 0.419, p < 0.001) had significant positive effects on the dependent variable. The study concluded that while decentralized e-procurement platforms have contributed to greater visibility and supplier inclusion, their impact is contingent on the usability and reliability of the systems deployed. The research recommends improving platform accessibility through user-friendly interfaces, supplier training, and mobile integration, as well as enhancing system efficiency through full automation and prompt communication tools. The findings offer practical implications for policymakers, procurement reform advocates, and technology developers working to enhance governance and competitiveness in Kenya’s devolved procurement systems.

Keywords: e-procurement, platform accessibility, system efficiency, transparency, supplier participation, county governments, Kenya


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