Last week, the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA) held a special luncheon to bid a heartfelt farewell to David Kiyingi, whose tenure as the representative of the Minister of Finance on the PPDA Board has come to an end. Kiyingi was celebrated for his outstanding contributions to the PPDA Board and his pivotal role in modernizing Uganda’s public procurement profession.
A Visionary for the Procurement Profession
David Kiyingi’s tenure on the PPDA Board was marked by his profound insights, passion, and commitment to advancing the procurement profession in Uganda. Dr. Levi Kabagambe, in his farewell remarks, referred to Kiyingi as the “father of formal procurement and supply management education and training” in Uganda. Kiyingi’s work at Makerere University Business School (MUBS) to advocate for the recognition of procurement as a professional field was a critical turning point for the sector.
His leadership and efforts to formalize the procurement profession have earned him admiration from colleagues and stakeholders. PPDA Board Chairman, Julius K. Ishungisa, praised Kiyingi for his humility and insightful contributions, noting that he always had a profound impact whenever he spoke. Fellow Board member Rita Namakiika echoed similar sentiments, describing Kiyingi as both a colleague and a true friend.
Contributions to Public Procurement Policies
Kiyingi’s impact extended beyond his role on the PPDA Board to significant contributions in shaping public procurement policies in Uganda. Executive Director of PPDA, Benson Turamye, highlighted Kiyingi’s instrumental role in initiating the sustainable procurement policy, which remains a cornerstone of Uganda’s procurement reforms. His leadership and dedication helped to create an environment that fostered better practices in public procurement.
Kiyingi’s appointment as the first procurement professional to represent the Minister of Finance on the PPDA Board was a testament to his expertise and influence. His advocacy for public procurement has been crucial in pushing for policies that promote transparency, sustainability, and efficiency in the procurement process.
A Farewell with Gratitude
During his closing remarks, Kiyingi expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve on the PPDA Board. He shared that procurement was not just a profession for him, but a true passion, and reaffirmed his commitment to continue advocating for the procurement profession through his roles at the Ministry of Finance.
Although his tenure with the PPDA Board has come to an end, Kiyingi assured all stakeholders that he would continue to work towards advancing procurement practices in Uganda. His legacy, built on years of dedication, passion, and vision, will continue to influence the future of procurement in the country.
David Kiyingi’s legacy in Uganda’s procurement sector is undeniable. His advocacy for modern procurement practices, his efforts to secure recognition for the procurement profession, and his policy contributions will continue to shape the industry for years to come. His wisdom, humility, and tireless dedication to the profession have left an indelible mark on the procurement community.
As the PPDA Board, Executive Committee, and stakeholders bid farewell to Kiyingi, we express our deepest thanks for his exceptional service and leadership. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with him in his future endeavors as he remains a key figure in the promotion and development of procurement in Uganda.
PPDA extends its heartfelt appreciation to David Kiyingi for his years of service, and we are confident that his continued support for the procurement profession will lead to further growth and transformation in Uganda’s public procurement sector
