Botswana government seems to be catching the international Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) buzz as it has admitted that internet plays a crucial role in the economic development.
Although at times, internet has been seen as promoting social ills as social networks are home for informal democratic platforms, and have become alternative to conventional media and critical of government, the budget for 2015/2016 revealed government wants to embrace technology.
Delivering, his annual statement, Finance Minister, Kenneth Matambo said government will be automating a number of departments including the most crucial one- the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Board (PPADB).
Matambo announced that PPADB is implementing the Integrated Procurement Management System to enhance procurement management, improve transparency, and reduce lead times in public procurement.
“The system further provides a platform for online bidding, which includes preparation of Procurement Plans; generation of invitation to tender documents; downloading of documents by contractors; online tender submission, as well as online adjudication,” he revealed.
The minister also admitted that the use of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) is an important tool for efficient delivery of public services to Batswana.
“To this end, Government has adopted the e-Government programme in order to enhance innovation in the public sector,” he told parliament. The programme includes: application and issuance of various Government permits, licenses and certificates; providing information on legislative/administrative notices; as well as payment services such as tax refunds.
