E-procurement Strategies and Sustainable Procurement Performance of Telecommunication Companies in Kenya

Abstract

This study’s goal was to assess the impact of e-procurement adoption on the sustainable procurement performance of telecommunication companies operating in Kenya. The study aimed to achieve three specific objectives: (i) to evaluate the e-procurement strategies that have been implemented, (ii) to evaluate the impact of implementing e-procurement on sustainable procurement performance, and (iii) to identify the challenges faced in implementing e-procurement strategies to attain sustainable procurement goals within the telecommunication companies in Kenya. The research employed an explanatory research design, focusing on the telecommunication companies in Kenya. The collection of primary data was conducted through the utilization of semi-structured questionnaires. The respondents in this study consisted of procurement officers, ICT officers, and accounting officers. The response rate achieved was 85%. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were employed to examine the relationship between the variables in the collected data. The research revealed that implementing e-procurement strategies, including e-ordering, e-tendering, e-invoicing, e-sourcing, e-payment, and e-cataloging, resulted in positive results in terms of sustainable procurement performance. These results encompassed advantages in terms of competitive positioning, decreased operational expenses, environmental sustainability, and employee retention. The study also identified several difficulties faced by telecommunication companies in implementing e-procurement strategies to attain sustainable procurement. These difficulties included high implementation costs, resistance to change, inadequate infrastructure, and lack of adequate training. To address these difficulties, the study recommended policy and practice changes that include creating a supportive legal framework for e-procurement adoption, investing in infrastructure and training, and encouraging supplier collaboration. The study’s conclusion is that e-procurement adoption is essential in improving the sustainability of procurement in telecommunication companies in Kenya. Finally, the study recommends extended research focused on exploring the effect of e-procurement on specific aspects of sustainable procurement, such as social responsibility and ethical practices.