Expedite Africa

Stay updated with the latest tender opportunities across various sectors. Our tender notices page provides up-to-date information on available contracts, procurement requests, and bidding opportunities from government agencies, private organizations, and international institutions.

Whether you’re a contractor, supplier, or service provider, explore new business opportunities and expand your reach by staying informed about open tenders. Check back regularly for new listings and ensure you never miss an opportunity.

Regions of Africa

Northern Africa

  • Western Sahara
  • Morocco
  • Algeria
  • Tunisia
  • Libya
  • Egypt
  • Sudan

Western Africa

  • Togo
  • Benin
  • Mali
  • Niger
  • Nigeria
  • Mauritana
  • Senegal
  • Guinea
  • Cote Divoire
  • Ghana
  • Burkina Faso

Central Africa

  • Chad
  • Cameroon
  • Central African Republic
  • Gabon
  • Angola
  • DRC Congo

Eastern Africa

  • Eritrea
  • South Sudan
  • Ethiopia
  • Somalia
  • Uganda
  • Kenya
  • Rwanda
  • Burundi
  • Tanzania
  • Zambia
  • Malawi
  • Zimbabwe
  • Mozambique
  • Madagascar

Southern Africa

  • Namibia
  • Bostwana
  • South Africa
  • Lesotho
  • Swaziland

1. Introduction

  • Definition of Tenders
    • Explanation of what tenders are (formal offers or bids made for projects, goods, or services).
    • Types of tenders: Open tendering, selective tendering, negotiated tendering, etc.
  • Importance of Tenders in Africa
    • Contribution to economic development, infrastructure, and public services.
    • Creation of business opportunities, especially in construction, healthcare, and technology.

2. Historical Overview of Tendering in Africa

  • Colonial Influence on Tendering Systems
    • Overview of tendering processes during colonial times, focusing on the infrastructure and supply chains.
  • Post-independence Developments
    • Evolution of tender systems in newly independent African nations.
    • Challenges faced during the transition from colonial to indigenous governance.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

  • Regulations Governing Tendering in Africa
    • Overview of national tendering laws, rules, and frameworks (for example, the Public Procurement Act in countries like Kenya, Nigeria, or South Africa).
    • The role of regional bodies like the African Union (AU) and the East African Community (EAC) in influencing procurement policies.
  • International Standards and Agreements
    • Influence of international organizations such as the World Bank, the African Development Bank (AfDB), and the UN on procurement standards.
    • How global frameworks like the WTO Agreement on Government Procurement impact African countries.

4. Key Sectors for Tenders in Africa

  • Infrastructure and Construction
    • Role of tenders in building roads, bridges, airports, and housing.
    • Examples of large-scale infrastructure projects awarded through tenders.
  • Energy and Utilities
    • How tenders drive the development of renewable energy projects, electricity, and water supply systems.
  • Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
    • Tenders for medical supplies, healthcare infrastructure, and public health projects.
    • Example: Africa’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the role of tenders in sourcing vaccines and PPE.
  • Technology and Innovation
    • Tenders for IT systems, e-government projects, and digital infrastructure.
  • Agriculture and Food Security
    • Procurement in agricultural projects, food distribution programs, and rural development.

5. Challenges in the Tendering Process

  • Corruption and Mismanagement
    • How corruption affects the transparency and fairness of the tendering process.
    • Case studies of tender fraud, favoritism, and political interference.
  • Lack of Capacity and Expertise
    • Challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in participating in tenders.
    • The need for capacity-building programs to support local businesses.
  • Transparency and Accountability Issues
    • Lack of transparency in the evaluation and awarding of tenders.
    • Efforts to improve governance, such as e-procurement systems.
  • Bureaucratic Red Tape and Delays
    • The impact of lengthy processes and inefficiencies on the timely implementation of projects.
  • Access to Information
    • Lack of access to tender opportunities for smaller businesses and local entrepreneurs.

6. Role of Technology in Tendering

  • E-Procurement Systems
    • Overview of electronic procurement platforms (e.g., Kenya’s e-Procurement platform, South Africa’s eTender Portal).
    • Benefits of e-procurement: reducing human error, improving transparency, and increasing efficiency.
  • Digitalization and Its Impact on Tendering
    • How digital tools, such as AI and blockchain, are being integrated into the procurement process to reduce fraud and enhance decision-making.

7. Successful Case Studies of Tendering in Africa

  • Kenya’s Big Four Agenda
    • Overview of Kenya’s public procurement efforts related to affordable housing, universal healthcare, and manufacturing.
  • South Africa’s Infrastructure Development
    • Case study on successful tendering processes in the South African construction sector (e.g., the Gautrain project, renewable energy tenders).
  • Nigeria’s Agricultural Tenders
    • How Nigeria has used tenders to stimulate agricultural development and food security.
  • Tenders in the African Union (AU) and Regional Cooperation
    • Successful collaborative projects across African countries that used tenders to boost regional integration (e.g., Pan-African energy initiatives, transnational road networks).

8. The Future of Tendering in Africa

  • Increased Emphasis on Sustainability
    • The growing focus on green and sustainable projects in tenders (renewable energy, eco-friendly infrastructure).
  • Public-Private Partnerships (PPP)
    • Role of tenders in forming public-private partnerships to finance and implement large-scale projects.
  • Regional Integration and Cross-Border Tenders
    • The rise of regional procurement initiatives to promote cross-border projects, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
  • Youth and Women Empowerment
    • The push for more inclusive tendering, providing opportunities for youth and women-owned businesses.

9. Recommendations for Improving Tendering Processes

  • Strengthening Legal and Regulatory Frameworks
    • Proposals for reform to reduce corruption and improve transparency.
  • Capacity Building for Local Businesses
    • Training and support programs to help local companies, especially SMEs, access and succeed in tendering opportunities.
  • Increasing Transparency and Accountability
    • Advocating for open bidding processes, public procurement data, and independent auditing.
  • Leveraging Technology
    • Expanding e-procurement and other digital solutions to improve efficiency, cut down delays, and enhance transparency.

10. Conclusion

  • Summary of Key Points
    • Recap the major points discussed about tenders in Africa, including challenges, opportunities, and the evolving landscape.
  • The Role of Tendering in Africa’s Development
    • Final thoughts on how tenders can continue to drive economic growth and development across the continent.
  • Call to Action
    • Emphasize the need for continued reform, collaboration, and investment in tendering processes to ensure that they contribute to Africa’s long-term prosperity.

Tenders in Africa refer to the formalized process through which businesses, governments, and organizations solicit bids from suppliers, contractors, or service providers for various projects and services. These tenders can involve anything from construction projects and infrastructure development to IT services, supply of goods, and consultancy services.

Across the African continent, tenders are often used for large-scale projects that can have significant economic or developmental impacts. Many tenders are issued by government entities, international organizations, NGOs, and large corporations operating in the region.

Key Features of Tenders in Africa:

  1. Public Sector Tenders: These are typically issued by government ministries, local governments, and state-owned enterprises. They are common for public infrastructure projects such as roads, schools, hospitals, and utilities.
  2. Private Sector Tenders: Businesses and private companies also issue tenders for various needs, including equipment, IT services, and product supplies. These tenders are often smaller-scale projects in comparison to public tenders.
  3. International Tenders: Large international organizations, such as the United Nations, World Bank, and African Development Bank, often issue tenders for projects across multiple African countries. These tenders can cover a broad range of industries, including health, education, energy, and more.
  4. Tender Platforms: Several platforms and websites have been developed to streamline the process of finding and applying for tenders in Africa. These include government portals, private tender databases, and consultancy firms that specialize in tender opportunities.
  5. Bidding Process: The process typically involves submitting proposals or quotations that meet the tender specifications. Bids are evaluated based on several criteria such as cost, qualifications, experience, and delivery time.
  6. Local Content Policies: Many African countries have policies that encourage local businesses to participate in tenders. This helps boost domestic industries and promotes economic growth within the country.

Example of Tender Opportunities in Africa:

  • Infrastructure: Tenders for the construction of roads, bridges, ports, and airports in various African countries.
  • Energy: Opportunities for solar, wind, and other renewable energy projects.
  • Healthcare: Tenders for the supply of medical equipment, pharmaceuticals, or the construction of healthcare facilities.
  • IT and Technology: Tenders for the provision of IT infrastructure, software, and technological solutions for governments or businesses.
  • Agriculture: Tenders related to farming equipment, seeds, and agro-processing initiatives.

To participate in these tenders, companies often need to meet certain qualifications, such as having previous experience in the relevant field, a sound financial background, and the ability to meet deadlines. Tendering can be competitive, and companies often need to put forth the best possible proposal to win.

Key Sectors with Tendering Opportunities in Africa

  1. Infrastructure Development
    • Focus: Construction of roads, bridges, railways, ports, airports, and utilities (water, electricity).
    • Opportunities: Many African countries are heavily investing in infrastructure as part of their development plans. Major international institutions like the World Bank and African Development Bank fund these projects, which are often tendered to local and international construction companies.
    • Example: The construction of roads and highways across countries like Kenya, South Africa, and Nigeria, or the development of ports in coastal nations like Senegal or Egypt.
  2. Energy & Renewables
    • Focus: Energy generation, especially in renewable sources such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy.
    • Opportunities: Africa is increasingly turning towards renewable energy solutions due to its abundant natural resources. There is a demand for energy projects, both large-scale and off-grid solutions, to address power shortages and boost economic development.
    • Example: Solar power farms, wind energy projects in Morocco, or the development of off-grid solutions in rural areas of East and West Africa.
  3. Healthcare
    • Focus: Construction and renovation of healthcare facilities, supply of medical equipment and pharmaceuticals, and providing healthcare services.
    • Opportunities: The healthcare sector in Africa presents numerous opportunities, especially in response to the growing demand for improved healthcare infrastructure and services. International aid, national governments, and NGOs all participate in tendering in this sector.
    • Example: Tenders for supplying hospitals with medical equipment or setting up mobile clinics in remote areas of sub-Saharan Africa.
  4. Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
    • Focus: Provision of ICT infrastructure, software, hardware, and digital services.
    • Opportunities: With digital transformation sweeping across Africa, there’s an increasing demand for ICT solutions, including e-government services, digital education tools, and e-commerce platforms. Governments and businesses seek tenders to implement tech-driven projects.
    • Example: Tenders for providing broadband internet infrastructure in rural areas or setting up government digital platforms for citizen services.
  5. Agriculture and Agribusiness
    • Focus: Agricultural development, equipment, supplies, and agribusiness ventures.
    • Opportunities: Agriculture remains the backbone of many African economies. Tenders in this sector can include the supply of fertilizers, seeds, equipment, and even the development of processing plants for agricultural products.
    • Example: Tenders for setting up irrigation systems, agricultural processing plants, or distributing seeds and farming tools to local communities.

How to Get Involved in the Tendering Process

  1. Register on Tender Platforms
    • Governments and organizations often post tender opportunities on dedicated websites. For example:
    • International Platforms: Websites like UNGM (United Nations Global Marketplace) or DevelopmentAid list tenders from international bodies working in Africa.
  2. Understand the Tender Documentation
    • Tender documents contain detailed information about the project requirements, including the scope of work, qualifications, deadlines, and criteria for selection.
    • Carefully read these documents to ensure your business can meet the necessary requirements and prepare your proposal accordingly.
  3. Focus on Local Content and Regulations
    • Many African governments have local content regulations that prioritize local businesses for tenders. However, they also encourage international partnerships with local businesses. It’s essential to understand these policies and ensure that your proposal aligns with them.
    • Example: In Nigeria, local companies must form joint ventures with foreign companies for certain contracts to increase local participation in economic development.
  4. Develop a Strong Proposal
    • Technical Proposal: Outline how you intend to complete the project, including methodologies, timelines, and project management strategies.
    • Financial Proposal: Provide a breakdown of costs and show the value for money. Ensure you meet budgetary constraints while demonstrating quality.
    • Highlight your company’s experience, expertise, and capacity to handle the scale of the project. Offering competitive pricing while maintaining quality is crucial.
  5. Meet All Compliance and Certification Requirements
    • Many African tenders require businesses to have certain certifications, licenses, and compliance with local laws, such as tax clearance certificates or ISO certifications.
    • Ensure that your company is compliant with these regulations to avoid disqualification during the evaluation phase.
  6. Partner with Local Firms
    • If you are an international company, consider partnering with a local firm to increase your chances of success, especially if the tender includes local content policies.
    • Joint ventures with local companies can help overcome logistical challenges and establish credibility in the region.
  7. Prepare for Due Diligence
    • After submitting a tender, be prepared for due diligence checks. This might include verifying your financial standing, past project experience, and capacity to deliver on time and within budget.
  8. Follow Up on Submitted Tenders
    • After submitting a bid, follow up with the procuring agency to check the status of your tender and clarify any issues that might arise during evaluation.

Challenges in the Tendering Process

While there are many opportunities, there are some challenges to consider when tendering in Africa:

  • Bureaucratic Hurdles: Tendering can be a long process due to slow approval and evaluation systems in some countries.
  • Corruption: Some regions face corruption risks in the tendering process. It’s important to ensure transparency and ethical practices in all your dealings.
  • Competition: The competition can be intense, especially in sectors like construction and infrastructure, where large-scale projects attract both local and international bidders.

How to Get Started with Finding Tenders in Africa

1. Identify Your Area of Expertise

  • Choose a Sector: Based on your business or area of expertise (construction, healthcare, energy, ICT, etc.), start by focusing on one or two key sectors where you can offer the most value. Understanding the scope of your capabilities will help you prioritize which tenders to pursue.
  • Market Research: Research which African countries are making the most investments in your sector. For example:
    • Renewable energy projects are booming in countries like Kenya, South Africa, and Morocco.
    • Healthcare infrastructure is being expanded in nations like Nigeria, Ghana, and Uganda.
    • Technology projects are increasingly sought after across East and West Africa, particularly in urban areas like Nairobi and Lagos.

2. Register on Key Tender Platforms

These platforms will help you access relevant tenders, stay updated on new opportunities, and submit your bids directly.

  • South Africa:
    • eTenders.gov.za: Official government portal listing all public sector tenders.
    • Bidvest Tender Portal: A private portal listing a variety of tender opportunities across sectors.
  • Kenya:
    • Public Procurement Information Portal (PPIP): Includes tender listings from all government ministries and agencies.
    • TendersKenya: A private platform with a focus on government and private sector tenders.
  • Nigeria:
    • Nigeria’s National e-Procurement Portal: Centralized platform for public tenders in Nigeria.
    • Tenders Nigeria: Another useful platform that lists both government and private tenders.
  • Pan-Africa:
    • UNGM (United Nations Global Marketplace): Provides tenders issued by the UN and other international organizations operating in Africa.
    • DevelopmentAid: A subscription-based platform with tender information for development projects funded by international organizations.

3. Understand Tender Documents and Evaluation Criteria

  • Study Tender Specifications: Each tender document will outline what the procuring organization is looking for in terms of goods or services, timelines, and qualification requirements. Read through this carefully.
  • Prepare Required Documentation: Common documents might include:
    • Company Registration and Tax Clearance Certificates
    • Financial Statements
    • Relevant Experience or Past Project Records
    • Technical Proposals (detailing how you will carry out the project)
    • Bid Prices
  • Evaluation Criteria: Make sure you meet the key evaluation points. Most tenders assess based on cost, technical quality, delivery timeline, and experience.

4. Create a Strong Tender Proposal

  • Technical Proposal: This section explains how your company will execute the project. Focus on your technical capabilities, your team’s expertise, and the methodology you’ll use to complete the project. Clearly show that you understand the project scope and objectives.
  • Financial Proposal: Outline the costs for delivering the service or product, breaking down materials, labor, overheads, and other costs. Make sure your pricing is competitive yet sustainable.
  • Compliance: Highlight how your proposal meets local regulations, standards, and the tender’s specific requirements (local content, environmental standards, etc.).

5. Partner with Local Businesses if Needed

  • As mentioned earlier, many African governments encourage local participation in tenders, especially in large projects. If you are a foreign company, consider entering joint ventures or partnerships with local businesses. This can help navigate local laws and improve your chances of winning.

6. Monitor Tender Deadlines and Follow Up

  • Deadlines: Pay close attention to tender deadlines to avoid missing opportunities. Set reminders for submission dates and ensure all required documents are ready in advance.
  • Follow Up: After submission, follow up on the status of your tender. Be open to answering questions or providing additional documentation if needed.

Sector-Specific Tender Examples

Let’s go over some sector-specific examples for Africa’s growing industries.

1. Infrastructure Development

  • Example Tender in Kenya: “Construction of Roads and Bridges in Nairobi County”
    • Scope: Construction of new roads, bridge repairs, drainage systems, etc.
    • Estimated Budget: $10 million USD.
    • Requirements: Relevant experience in large-scale infrastructure projects, proof of financial stability, and local partnerships.
    • Where to Find: Kenya’s Public Procurement Information Portal (PPIP) or TendersKenya.
  • Example Tender in Nigeria: “Expansion of Lagos Ports”
    • Scope: Expanding infrastructure to accommodate larger vessels, increasing port capacity.
    • Estimated Budget: $50 million USD.
    • Requirements: Proven track record in port infrastructure development, access to necessary equipment and technology.
    • Where to Find: Nigeria’s National e-Procurement Portal.

2. Renewable Energy (Solar, Wind, Hydro)

  • Example Tender in South Africa: “Development of a Solar Power Plant in the Northern Cape”
    • Scope: Construction of a solar farm with a capacity of 200 MW.
    • Estimated Budget: $200 million USD.
    • Requirements: Expertise in renewable energy projects, certifications for environmental sustainability.
    • Where to Find: South Africa’s eTenders.gov.za or Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP).
  • Example Tender in Morocco: “Wind Power Project in Tangier”
    • Scope: Installation of wind turbines with a generation capacity of 100 MW.
    • Requirements: Experience in large-scale wind power projects, financing capabilities.
    • Where to Find: Morocco’s National Energy Agency (MASEN) or international tender platforms like UNGM.

3. Healthcare

  • Example Tender in Ghana: “Supply of Medical Equipment to Regional Hospitals”
    • Scope: Supply of diagnostic equipment, surgical tools, and hospital furniture.
    • Estimated Budget: $5 million USD.
    • Requirements: Previous experience in medical equipment supply, knowledge of local healthcare regulations.
    • Where to Find: Ghana’s Public Procurement Portal or TendersGhana.
  • Example Tender in Nigeria: “Building a New Pediatric Care Facility”
    • Scope: Construction of a pediatric wing for a large public hospital in Abuja.
    • Estimated Budget: $8 million USD.
    • Requirements: Construction experience, healthcare facility design knowledge.
    • Where to Find: Nigeria’s National e-Procurement Portal.

Next Steps

  1. Start Searching: Check out the tender portals mentioned above based on your chosen sector and region.
  2. Build Partnerships: If you’re new to Africa, consider partnering with local firms to improve your chances of winning tenders.
  3. Tailor Proposals: Always customize your tender proposals to meet local requirements and demonstrate your understanding of the market.

East Africa (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Rwanda)

1. Infrastructure Projects

East Africa is seeing significant investments in infrastructure, including roads, railways, ports, and airports. Governments and international donors are funding numerous large-scale infrastructure projects.

  • Kenya:
    • Example Tender: “Construction of Nairobi Expressway”
      • Scope: Expansion of a major road to alleviate traffic congestion and improve transport.
      • Budget: Estimated at $500 million USD.
      • Requirements: Experience in road construction, financial stability, and local partnerships.
      • Where to Find: Kenya’s Public Procurement Information Portal (PPIP) and private platforms like TendersKenya.
  • Uganda:
    • Example Tender: “Upgrade of Entebbe International Airport”
      • Scope: Terminal expansion and runway upgrades.
      • Budget: Estimated at $200 million USD.
      • Requirements: Experience in airport infrastructure and compliance with international aviation standards.
      • Where to Find: Uganda’s Public Procurement Portal and Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA).
  • Tanzania:
    • Example Tender: “Port Expansion Project in Dar es Salaam”
      • Scope: Expansion of port facilities to handle increased shipping traffic.
      • Budget: Estimated at $150 million USD.
      • Requirements: Experience in port construction, marine infrastructure.
      • Where to Find: Tanzania Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA).

2. Renewable Energy Projects

East Africa has great potential for renewable energy, especially solar, wind, and geothermal. Governments and private companies are investing heavily in these sectors to provide sustainable energy solutions.

  • Kenya:
    • Example Tender: “Geothermal Power Plant Development in Olkaria”
      • Scope: Development of a 100 MW geothermal power station.
      • Budget: Estimated at $250 million USD.
      • Requirements: Proven expertise in geothermal energy development and a solid track record in energy projects.
      • Where to Find: Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) and Geothermal Development Company (GDC) tenders.
  • Ethiopia:
    • Example Tender: “Wind Power Project in the Afar Region”
      • Scope: Development of a 300 MW wind farm.
      • Budget: Estimated at $350 million USD.
      • Requirements: Wind power experience, including turbine installation and grid integration.
      • Where to Find: Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP) and Ethiopian Ministry of Water, Irrigation, and Energy tenders.
  • Rwanda:
    • Example Tender: “Solar Energy Installation in Rural Areas”
      • Scope: Provision of solar solutions to off-grid rural communities.
      • Budget: $50 million USD.
      • Requirements: Expertise in solar power technology and community-based energy solutions.
      • Where to Find: Rwanda Energy Group (REG) tenders.

3. Healthcare Infrastructure & Services

With rapid urbanization and growing populations, healthcare infrastructure and services are a priority in East Africa. Governments are investing in new hospitals, clinics, and the supply of medical equipment.

  • Kenya:
    • Example Tender: “Supply of Medical Equipment for Public Hospitals”
      • Scope: Provision of diagnostic equipment, surgical instruments, and hospital furniture for various government hospitals.
      • Budget: $20 million USD.
      • Requirements: Proven experience in medical supply and healthcare sector compliance.
      • Where to Find: Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA).
  • Uganda:
    • Example Tender: “Construction of Regional Healthcare Centers”
      • Scope: Construction of hospitals in underserved regions.
      • Budget: $25 million USD.
      • Requirements: Expertise in healthcare infrastructure and adherence to local building codes.
      • Where to Find: Uganda Ministry of Health and Public Procurement Portal.

South Africa

South Africa has a more mature market and is a key player in the African economy. It offers substantial opportunities in infrastructure, energy, and ICT, among other sectors.

1. Infrastructure Projects

Infrastructure development remains a top priority, with key projects focused on improving transportation, utilities, and urban infrastructure.

  • Example Tender: “Expansion of the Gautrain Rapid Rail System”
    • Scope: Expansion of the rail network to increase commuter capacity.
    • Budget: Estimated at $400 million USD.
    • Requirements: Expertise in rail infrastructure and advanced project management.
    • Where to Find: South African Government Tender Portal (eTenders.gov.za).
  • Example Tender: “Construction of the Durban Port Expansion”
    • Scope: Construction of new docks and container handling facilities to increase port capacity.
    • Budget: $250 million USD.
    • Requirements: Marine construction experience.
    • Where to Find: Transnet National Ports Authority tenders.

2. Renewable Energy

South Africa is leading the way in Africa’s renewable energy sector, especially solar and wind. The Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) is one of the major tender mechanisms.

  • Example Tender: “Wind Farm Development in the Eastern Cape”
    • Scope: Installation of wind turbines to generate 150 MW of electricity.
    • Budget: $200 million USD.
    • Requirements: Expertise in renewable energy project financing, installation, and grid integration.
    • Where to Find: REIPPPP or South African Department of Energy tenders.
  • Example Tender: “Solar PV Power Plant in Northern Cape”
    • Scope: Establishment of a 100 MW solar farm.
    • Budget: $150 million USD.
    • Requirements: Experience in solar PV installation and large-scale energy projects.
    • Where to Find: South African Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP).

3. Healthcare

South Africa is constantly improving healthcare infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing population and diverse healthcare demands.

  • Example Tender: “Supply of Medical Equipment for Public Health Centers”
    • Scope: Supply and maintenance of medical equipment across South Africa’s public health system.
    • Budget: $50 million USD.
    • Requirements: Experience with medical equipment, compliance with South African healthcare standards.
    • Where to Find: National Department of Health and South African Medical Supplies Tender Portal.
  • Example Tender: “Building a New Pediatric Hospital in Cape Town”
    • Scope: Construction of a specialized pediatric care hospital.
    • Budget: $60 million USD.
    • Requirements: Proven experience in hospital construction, healthcare design expertise.
    • Where to Find: South African Public Works Department tenders.

Getting Involved in the Tendering Process in East and South Africa

  1. Stay Updated: Register on tender portals specific to each country (e.g., eTenders.gov.za in South Africa, Kenya PPIP in Kenya) and set alerts to receive updates on new tender opportunities.
  2. Focus on Your Strengths: Whether you’re in construction, energy, healthcare, or another sector, focus on the tenders that align with your company’s expertise. This will give you a competitive advantage.
  3. Understand Local Regulations: Make sure to familiarize yourself with each country’s tender regulations, local content policies, and compliance requirements. Many African countries prioritize local companies or joint ventures with local partners.
  4. Submit Strong Proposals: Prepare clear and detailed technical and financial proposals that highlight your company’s strengths, past experience, and capacity to deliver on large projects. Address specific requirements like local employment or environmental standards where necessary.
  5. Partner with Local Firms: For foreign companies, partnering with local firms can enhance your chances of winning tenders, especially for projects requiring local knowledge or fulfillment of local content rules.

East Africa

1. Kenya

  • Public Procurement Information Portal (PPIP):
    • Overview: This is Kenya’s official government platform for all public procurement opportunities, including tenders issued by government ministries, counties, and state corporations.
    • What’s Available: You’ll find tenders for construction, supply of goods and services, consultancy, etc.
    • How to Register:
      1. Visit PPIP Portal.
      2. Create an account by registering your business and company details.
      3. Set up alerts for specific sectors or regions to get notifications on new tenders.
  • TendersKenya:
    • Overview: A private platform that consolidates various tenders from both government and private sectors across Kenya.
    • What’s Available: Tenders for infrastructure, healthcare, education, and more.
    • How to Register:
      1. Visit TendersKenya.
      2. Create an account, complete your business profile.
      3. Browse tender opportunities by category or region, and register for email notifications for relevant tenders.

2. Uganda

  • Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA):
    • Overview: The official platform for public sector procurement in Uganda. It covers tenders for government contracts, consultancy, and supply.
    • What’s Available: A wide variety of public procurement opportunities.
    • How to Register:
      1. Visit PPDA Portal.
      2. Register your company by providing the required documentation.
      3. Once registered, you can access and bid for available tenders.
  • TendersUganda:
    • Overview: A private platform listing tenders from both public and private sectors.
    • What’s Available: Construction, healthcare, and IT tenders.
    • How to Register:
      1. Visit TendersUganda.
      2. Sign up and create a business profile.
      3. Set up alerts based on your business sector.

3. Tanzania

  • Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA):
    • Overview: This is the official Tanzanian government portal that lists tenders from all public sectors including infrastructure and public health.
    • What’s Available: Government procurement opportunities across various sectors.
    • How to Register:
      1. Visit PPRA Tanzania.
      2. Register by submitting your company and financial details.
      3. Browse active tenders and register for alerts.

4. Rwanda

  • Rwanda Public Procurement Authority (RPPA):
    • Overview: The RPPA is the official body that governs and oversees public procurement processes in Rwanda.
    • What’s Available: Tenders for construction, agriculture, health, energy, and more.
    • How to Register:
      1. Visit RPPA Portal.
      2. Register your company to be eligible to participate in tenders.
      3. Browse active opportunities based on your sector.

South Africa

1. eTenders.gov.za

  • Overview: South Africa’s official government portal for tenders. It lists tenders from all levels of government: national, provincial, and municipal.
  • What’s Available: You’ll find tenders for government projects in construction, education, healthcare, energy, and more.
  • How to Register:
    1. Visit eTenders.gov.za.
    2. Create an account by submitting your company’s details.
    3. Once registered, you can apply filters based on your business sector and location.

2. South African National Treasury eProcurement Portal

  • Overview: The official portal for procurement from South Africa’s National Treasury. This platform lists tenders for major government projects, including procurement of goods, services, and infrastructure.
  • What’s Available: Public sector tenders for construction, energy, and government services.
  • How to Register:
    1. Visit National Treasury Portal.
    2. Register by providing your company’s details.
    3. Use the portal to browse tenders and receive email notifications on new opportunities.

3. Bidvest Tender Portal

  • Overview: A private tender portal that consolidates tenders for various sectors, including construction, energy, and technology.
  • What’s Available: Public and private sector tenders, often focusing on procurement and services.
  • How to Register:
    1. Visit Bidvest Tenders.
    2. Sign up and fill out your business details.
    3. Filter tenders based on your business expertise and location.

4. Transnet Procurement Portal

  • Overview: For businesses interested in public procurement related to South Africa’s major ports, rail, and logistics sectors.
  • What’s Available: Tenders for infrastructure development, railways, port operations, and logistics.
  • How to Register:
    1. Visit Transnet Tender Portal.
    2. Register by providing your business documentation.
    3. Browse tenders and receive updates on relevant opportunities.

Pan-African Platforms for Tenders

1. UNGM (United Nations Global Marketplace)

  • Overview: This is the central procurement portal for the UN system, where you can find tenders for various international development projects funded by the UN and other international organizations.
  • What’s Available: Tenders for infrastructure, healthcare, education, water, sanitation, and more.
  • How to Register:
    1. Visit UNGM Portal.
    2. Create a profile and complete your business details.
    3. Start bidding on relevant tenders based on your sector and expertise.

2. DevelopmentAid

  • Overview: A subscription-based platform that offers a comprehensive listing of development and international cooperation tenders, including those in Africa.
  • What’s Available: Tenders funded by international organizations, including the World Bank, African Development Bank (AfDB), and others.
  • How to Register:
    1. Visit DevelopmentAid.
    2. Create an account and subscribe to receive tender alerts.
    3. Browse available tenders and apply based on your expertise.

Next Steps

  1. Register on Multiple Platforms: It’s a good idea to sign up for several platforms to get a broad range of tender opportunities. Some tenders may only appear on specific platforms.
  2. Set Up Alerts: Once registered, set up alerts for specific sectors or regions so you never miss out on relevant tenders.
  3. Stay Active: Frequently check for updates and ensure you respond quickly to tenders, as many will have tight deadlines.