Harnessing Artificial Intelligence and Inclusive Public Procurement for Regional Integration, Youth Empowerment and Shared Prosperity
A forum built around what's changing procurement right now.
This theme aligns with the current global focus on reducing youth unemployment and ensuring young people are fully engaged in productive economic activity. In Sub-Saharan Africa the rate of youth Not in Employment, Education or Training (NEET) stands at 21.9%, above the global average of 20.4%, and varies widely across EAC partner states.
Public Procurement accounts for 15–20% of global GDP and about half of annual government budgets — one of the most influential levers governments have to shape the economy and spur inclusive growth. The theme also focuses on adopting emerging technologies — artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain and cybersecurity — through continuous capacity development and the realignment of e-procurement systems and regulatory operations.
Five sub-themes, one agenda
Each session track maps to one of the sub-themes below. Together they form the backbone of the programme, the resolutions process and the delegate conversations across the four days.
The five sub-themes.
Digital Transformation of Public Procurement and Responsible use of AI
Examining the use of AI to enhance procurement efficiency, integrity, transparency and value for money, while strengthening compliance, ethical governance, cybersecurity, anti-corruption safeguards and public trust through accountable and human-centric AI practices.
Youth as Drivers of Procurement Innovation
Creating opportunities for young entrepreneurs, technology innovators, procurement professionals and start-ups to participate in Public Procurement and develop solutions for public-sector challenges.
Inclusive Procurement for Marginalised, Underserved Communities and Promoting Regional Integration
Examining how procurement systems can increase participation by women, persons with disabilities, disadvantaged communities, micro and small enterprises and other historically underserved groups — and promoting the opportunities created through implementation of the EAC Common Market Protocol.
Climate Smart Procurement for Sustainable Development
Using public purchasing power to promote climate action, circular economy principles, sustainable infrastructure, local production and environmentally responsible supply chains.
Building the Next Generation of Procurement Professionals
Professionalisation, digital skills, AI literacy, innovation, leadership and continuous learning for young procurement practitioners across East Africa.
Programme sessions, resolutions and the project portfolio all trace back to one of the five sub-themes.
Use the theme as a lens when reading the programme or proposing a resolution — every session is there to advance one of these five sub-themes.
See how the sub-themes map onto the four-day programme.
The programme groups sessions, speakers and plenary discussions under these same five sub-themes.
View the programme →