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5th General Assembly of The African Public Procurement Network
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
November 11th – 14th, 2025

THEME: “Transforming Public Procurement in Africa through innovation, inclusion, sustainability, and regional collaboration”

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About APPN

The African Public Procurement Network (APPN) is a continental platform that strengthens public procurement systems through collaboration, innovation, and knowledge sharing. It empowers governments and institutions to build transparent, efficient, and inclusive procurement frameworks that drive sustainable growth.

Under the 2025 theme, “Transforming Public Procurement in Africa through Innovation, Inclusion, Sustainability, and Regional Collaboration,” APPN highlights the vital role of innovation, equity, and regional cooperation in advancing good governance, economic resilience, and sustainable development across Africa.

Featured Sessions

Opening & High-Level Dialogue

Opening of the Fifth General Assembly with welcome remarks, keynote address, and high-level discussions. Sessions will explore digital innovation in procurement, covering e-procurement, blockchain, AI, and machine learning and procurement as a catalyst for job creation.

Tuesday, Nov 11, 2025

08:00 AM to 17:30 PM

Technical Panels & Collaboration

Technical panels on sustainability in procurement, AfCFTA and regional trade, harmonization of procurement systems, governance, and professionalization. Experts, policymakers, and practitioners will share lessons and strategies to strengthen procurement institutions.

Wednesday, Nov 12, 2025

09:00 AM to 17:00 PM

Breakouts, Governance & Closing

Breakout group discussions (English, French, and Portuguese-speaking countries) focused on technology, governance, and regional collaboration. Reports from groups will be presented, followed by the closing session, elections, adoption of audit reports, and a gala dinner.

Thursday, Nov 13, 2025

09:00 AM to 18:30 PM

Cultural Immersion & Networking

Leisure and cultural experiences, including a guided tour of Victoria Falls and a Zambezi River sunset cruise, providing opportunities for networking and relaxation.

Friday, Nov 14, 2025

09:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Logistics Note

The Logistics Note provides practical information for all delegates attending the Fifth General Assembly of the African Public Procurement Network (APPN), to be held at the Elephant Hills Resort in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, from 11 to 14 November 2025.

About the event

The Government of Zimbabwe, as the current President of the Network will host the Fifth General Assembly in coordination with the APPN Technical Secretariat. Expected cosponsors include the World Bank, African Development Bank (AfDB), and Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), the host country, and the APPN.

Participants will include heads of procurement regulatory bodies, audit and oversight institutions, regional and international experts, civil society organizations, private sector representatives, and academic institutions. The APPN and its sponsors will cover the cost of participation for one delegate per member country. Additional participants may attend at their own expense. Virtual participation will also be available.

Aims of the Programme

The Fifth General Assembly of the African Public Procurement Network (APPN) seeks to:

  • Exchange lessons and best practices in public procurement across Africa.

  • Strengthen institutions and systems to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accountability.

  • Promote innovative solutions such as digital tools, AI, and data analytics to address procurement challenges.

  • Advance governance and strategic planning by reviewing regulations, electing leadership, and shaping the network’s future direction.

Main Activities

The programme will include:

  • Opening and Closing Ceremonies led by APPN leadership, ministers, and development partners.

  • Keynote speeches and technical panels on innovation, sustainability, inclusion, and regional collaboration in procurement.

  • Breakout discussions for English, French, and Portuguese-speaking countries to share experiences and strategies.

  • Governance deliberations including elections, audit reports, and updates on APPN regulations.

  • Networking and cultural activities, such as a gala dinner, Victoria Falls tour, and Zambezi sunset cruise.

Speakers at a Glance

The Fifth General Assembly will feature over 36 distinguished speakers, including global thought leaders, heads of procurement agencies, and development partners. Key voices such as Prof. Mariana Mazzucato, Dr. Rajesh Shakya, and Prof. Geo Quinot will share insights on innovation, governance, and sustainability. In addition, panelists from across Africa and international institutions will enrich discussions with practical experiences and regional perspectives.

Venue and Tourist Attraction

The Fifth General Assembly of the African Public Procurement Network (APPN) will be hosted in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, one of Africa’s premier destinations. The venue will provide state-of-the-art conference facilities in a setting that combines professionalism with natural beauty, making it ideal for high-level dialogue and collaboration.

Delegates will have the unique opportunity to experience Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya (“The Smoke That Thunders”), the Falls stretch over 1.7 km wide and 108 meters high, offering a breathtaking spectacle. A Zambezi River sunset cruise and guided tours of the Falls will give participants a chance to relax, network, and immerse themselves in Zimbabwe’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

Speakers

Dr. C. Ruswa

Dr. C. Ruswa

APPN President / PRAZ CEO

He has over 32 years of experience in supply chain management, establishing governance systems across public, private, and development sectors. He has led defense logistics and coordinated humanitarian operations across Asia and Africa. He is a Certified International Procurement Professional (IPSCMI-USA) and a Chartered Procurement Practitioner (FCIPS). He is competent in the use and application of Art of Empowering People, certified by SMI International Inc.  

Susie Smith

Susie Smith

Procurement Consultant, Trainer & Legal Expert

UK-qualified lawyer and international procurement specialist with extensive experience across Asia and Africa. She has led MAPS assessments, developed training programs, and advised governments and institutions on procurement and governance reform. She is an Honorary Professor of Law at the University of Nottingham and Assistant Editor of the Public Procurement Law Review.

Vinay Sharma

Vinay Sharma

Senior Policy Advisor & Former Global Director, World Bank Procurement

international expert in public procurement and infrastructure policy with over 40 years of experience. He has served as Global Director for Procurement at the World Bank and Director at the African Development Bank, leading major reforms that enhanced transparency and efficiency. He now advises multilateral development banks and governments on procurement policy.

Dr. Olena Maslyukivska

Dr. Olena Maslyukivska

Researcher & Expert in Sustainable and Green Public Procurement

International leader in sustainable procurement, environmental policy, and the circular economy. With over 20 years of experience, she has led regional and global initiatives with the World Bank, OECD, and EU. She is a researcher at the University of Vaasa (Finland) and an Associate Professor at Kyiv-Mohyla Academy (Ukraine).

Legborsi Nwiabu

Legborsi Nwiabu

Trade Law & Public Procurement Policy Expert

International lawyer and trade policy specialist with expertise in WTO law, regional integration, and investment policy. He represented Nigeria in AfCFTA negotiations and currently coordinates the World Bank BIASHARA Project at the AfCFTA Secretariat. He holds advanced degrees in international trade and is pursuing a PhD in International Economic Law.

CHOI CHAN-MO

CHOI CHAN-MO

Senior Lecturer and Deputy Director

Specializes in capacity development for procurement officials and private sector practitioners. Since joining PPS in 2005, he has led initiatives in e-procurement, ICT contracts, and international cooperation, sharing Korea’s KONEPS system globally. He led a COVID-19 task force that earned the 2022 Prime Minister Prize for innovation. He holds degrees in Computer Science and International Business and is pursuing a Ph.D. in Public Policy.

Mr. Ashraf Ayad

Mr. Ashraf Ayad

Procurement Manager, African Development Bank (East & Southern Africa and Nigeria)

He has over 20 years of experience in procurement and project management across Africa and the Middle East. He has served as engineer, contract manager, and procurement officer, gaining deep expertise in project procurement design and performance monitoring. He joined the African Development Bank in 2005 and now manages procurement operations for East and Southern Africa and Nigeria. He holds a Civil Engineering degree, an MBA, and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP).

Chenjerani Simon Chirwa

Chenjerani Simon Chirwa

Practice Manager, Procurement, African Development Bank (Africa East & South)

He has over 35 years of experience in civil engineering and public procurement across Africa, Europe, and Asia. He has served as engineer, project manager, and procurement professional, including 18 years at the World Bank and 5 years with the Government of Malawi. He holds master’s degrees in Public Procurement and Public Health Engineering, is a Registered Engineer in Malawi, a Chartered Procurement Professional, and a Certified PPP Professional. He has lived and worked in 7 countries and has research interests in performance-based contracting and procurement policy.

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