Abstract:
The general objective of this study is to assess the factors affecting the effectiveness of Tender Evaluation in Water and Sewerage Authorities in Tanzania, with a focus on Bukoba Urban Water Supply and Sewerage Authority (BUWASA) in Bukoba Manicipal. The theoretical framework used in the study is the Strategic Choice Theory, which examines the role of organizational strategic decision-making in tender evaluation procedures. A mixed research design is adopted, employing a mixed research approach involving quantitative and qualitative methods. The target population consists of 120 employees in the procurement and supply department at BUWASA, with a sample size of 61 respondents selected through simple random and purposive sampling techniques. Data collected from primary and secondary sources, including questionnaires, interviews, and document review. The participants' perceptions on shared knowledge and resources, problem-solving efficiency, quality of output, and communication among stakeholders are analyzed, with a strong consensus observed in favor of effective collaboration and communication among stakeholders. Transparency is found to positively impact accountability, effective decision-making, prevention, and efficiency, highlighting its crucial role in the evaluation process. The effectiveness of tender evaluation is assessed with a focus on adherence to criteria, adherence to standards, fairness, and expertise, all of which receive positive evaluations. However, challenges such as subjectivity and bias, lack of clear criteria, and inadequate communication are identified, indicating areas for improvement in the procurement process. These findings are supported by interviews and suggest that measures such as the use of tender evaluation guidelines can enhance the effectiveness of the process at BUWASA. The study recommends several measures to enhance the effectiveness and integrity of tender evaluation processes in the public sector organization. These include establishing clear and standardized evaluation criteria, providing training to evaluators to reduce biases, engaging external experts for independent audits, emphasizing transparency in documentation, and involving key stakeholders in the evaluation processes to ensure fairness and consistency.
