As the countdown begins for the 5th General Assembly (FiGA) of the African Public Procurement Network (APPN), the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PRAZ) is diligently collaborating with regional and international partners to ensure an unforgettable experience in Victoria Falls from November 11 to 14, 2025. Under the theme “Transforming Public Procurement in Africa through Innovation, Inclusion, Sustainability, and Regional Collaboration,” the Assembly is set to welcome at least 50 member countries for the four-day event that promises to redefine procurement governance across the continent.
A Collaborative Approach
To streamline preparations, PRAZ has formed a multi-stakeholder organizing committee comprising representatives from key ministries, development institutions, and the private sector. This committee is tasked with logistics, stakeholder coordination, and crafting a robust technical program. They are working together with the APPN Technical Secretariat and notable co-sponsors like the African Development Bank (AfDB), World Bank, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and Islamic Development Bank (IsDB).
A Visionary Program
The Assembly’s agenda will feature high-profile speeches and keynote addresses that reflect Africa’s strides toward procurement reform and innovation. Attendees can look forward to a rich program featuring panel discussions, technical presentations, and regional roundtables. Key topics will include:
- Digital Transformation in Public Procurement
- Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence Applications
- Procurement as a Catalyst for Job Creation
- Sustainability Priorities
- Advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)
Building Capacity and Integrity
A significant focus will be on professionalization and capacity building, aimed at enhancing the skills and institutional frameworks necessary for robust procurement oversight and integrity. The Assembly will also address APPN governance issues, including strategic planning presentations and leadership elections.
Networking and Cultural Engagement
Beyond the technical discussions, the event will feature gastronomy activities, networking opportunities, and a vibrant cultural program that highlights the breathtaking beauty of Victoria Falls—one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
A Commitment to Progress
The APPN General Assembly is set to be a dynamic platform for exchange and innovation, reaffirming Africa’s collective commitment to modernizing public procurement systems. Hosting this event offers Zimbabwe a unique chance to showcase leadership, celebrate progress, and inspire collaborative action that will shape the future of procurement across the continent.
Join us as we pave the way for a transformative future in public procurement!