ASSESSMENT OF CORRUPTION RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH SPECIAL PROCUREMENT METHODS

Abstract

Special procurement methods are important process to expedite the acquisition of critical needs during emergencies and special circumstances to achieve value for money. However, studies have reported that several corruption risks associated with special procurement methods have been prone to numerous corruption risks which can compromise the integrity of the procurement process. Risks are inevitable at every stage of procurement process but can be managed. Previous studies on corruption risks associated with special procurement methods restricted on identification only, while assessing the corruption risks identified was observed to be left behind. It is however, important to assesses risks identified at early stage of procurement planning. This research sought to assessed the corruption risks identified. Twenty-two (22) corruption risks associated with special procurement methods were identified from various literature as red flags. The study adopted quantitative research approach where structured questionnaire was designed and shared via online google form to 384 procurement professionals as respondents while only 193 responses were received and used for data analysis. The data collected was analysed using descriptive statistics, such as mean, percentage and ranking and was further analysed by assessing the impact and frequency of occurrences. Convenient sampling method was also adopted. The study presents the results of the questionnaire survey, using (5point-scale) to assess the effects of the corruption risks on special procurement methods. The study established top twelve (12) risks with highest risk effects on special procurement methods. The study concluded that corruption risks associated with special procurement methods can be mitigated significantly by establish and implementing a procurement risk management framework with independent oversight and clear authority separation to reduce corruption risks and strengthen transparency and competition by implementing standardized procedures.