ZIPS Steps Up Fight for Professionalism in Procurement Sector,

By Alain kabinda

The Zambia Institute of Procurement and Supply (ZIPS) has commissioned its 2026 Inspectorate Team, signaling the start of a nationwide compliance exercise aimed at strengthening professional standards and accountability in procurement and supply management across Zambia.

The commissioning ceremony, held in Lusaka on May 30, marked the culmination of an intensive induction and orientation programme designed to prepare inspectors for one of the Institute's most critical regulatory functions.

Leading the commissioning was ZIPS President, Daniel Kabamba, who challenged the newly appointed inspectors to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and impartiality as they embark on their nationwide assignment.

"Inspections are not merely a regulatory requirement; they are an essential tool for safeguarding the integrity of the procurement and supply profession," Kabamba said.

The induction workshop was facilitated by ZIPS Vice President, Polite Hamaleka, and focused on equipping inspectors with the knowledge and competencies needed to effectively monitor compliance with the provisions of the Zambia Institute of Procurement and Supply Act.

Procurement and supply management play a vital role in ensuring transparency, efficiency, and value for money in both public and private institutions. As Zambia continues to pursue economic growth and improved public service delivery, the demand for qualified and ethical procurement professionals has become increasingly important.

Through its inspectorate function, ZIPS seeks to ensure that procurement and supply activities are conducted by appropriately qualified practitioners who adhere to established professional and ethical standards.

The 2026 inspection exercise is expected to begin in Lusaka during the first week of June before moving to the Copperbelt Province in the week commencing June 8. Subsequent inspections will be conducted in other provinces as part of a comprehensive national compliance programme.

According to the Institute, the exercise is intended not only to identify areas of non-compliance but also to support professional development and strengthen institutional procurement capacity.

Industry observers note that effective procurement systems are fundamental to reducing wastage, preventing corruption, and ensuring public resources are utilized efficiently.

By conducting regular inspections, ZIPS aims to reinforce accountability while encouraging practitioners to maintain active professional membership and engage in continuous professional development.

The initiative also serves as a reminder to organizations and procurement professionals of their obligation to comply with legal and professional requirements governing the sector.

As the inspection teams prepare to travel across the country, the Institute has urged practitioners to ensure they are fully compliant before inspections commence.

"Please do your part by ensuring that you are compliant today so that you are not found wanting," the Institute advised.

The commissioning of the 2026 Inspectorate Team reflects ZIPS' broader commitment to advancing excellence in procurement and supply management, a profession increasingly recognized as central to good governance, efficient public spending, and sustainable national development.

As inspectors fan out across the country in the coming weeks, their work is expected to contribute to stronger regulatory oversight, enhanced professional standards, and greater confidence in procurement systems within both the public and private sectors.

For ZIPS, the message is clear: professional compliance is not merely an obligation—it is a cornerstone of accountability, efficiency, and national progress.