By 
The Zambia Institute of Purchasing and Supply (ZIPS) has warned that it would take disciplinary action against all officers allegedly holding procurement and supply positions illegally at the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA).
In a letter dated April 9, 2026, addressed to the ZAMMSA Director General, ZIPS Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Henry Lukwesa, said the planned action aligned with the Institute’s obligation to uphold professional standards and protect the public interest.
Lukwesa said the Institute must ensure adherence to lawful practice within the procurement and supply profession.
“The Institute has established that only three officers are duly qualified, registered, and compliant with the provisions of the ZIPS Act, and are therefore eligible to practice procurement and supply,” he said.
He identified the compliant officers as Justine Mulimo, Diana Musa and Rodah Mayawa.
Lukwesa said all other officers currently occupying or acting in procurement and supply roles within the Agency were not compliant with the Act’s requirements and were therefore not eligible to practice procurement and supply management.
He stressed that Section 22, Sub-sections 1(a) and 2 of the ZIPS Act No. 15 of 2003 clearly state that only persons duly registered by the Institute are permitted to practice or offer services in procurement and supply management.
Lukwesa added that a person who contravened this provision committed an offence and was liable, upon conviction, to a fine not exceeding 10,000 penalty units or imprisonment for a period not exceeding three years, or both.
He said that in line with ZIPS’ statutory mandate, the identified non-compliant officers would be formally referred to the Institute’s Disciplinary Committee for further action.
“ZAMMSA is a Statutory Body that is required to follow through the Statutes of both the ZIPS Act and Public Procurement Act,” Lukwesa said.
He advised ZAMMSA to ensure that all procurement and supply functions within the Agency are carried out exclusively by duly registered and compliant professionals, as required by law.
Lukwesa further cited Section 25(2) of the Public Procurement Act No. 8 of 2020, which states that “procurement and stores management shall be carried out by a person who is a member of ZIPS.”
He warned that failure to comply with these legal requirements might expose both the Agency and the individuals involved to legal and regulatory consequences.
“The Institute remains committed to working collaboratively with ZAMMSA to strengthen procurement systems, enhance professionalism, and ensure full compliance with the said laws,” Lukwesa said.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments