Policies and regulations guiding procurement practices in the South African commuter bus sector

Abstract

The South African government is faced with the challenge of balancing the allocation of limited funds; the appointment of contractors among former government beneficiaries and previously disadvantaged individuals. The challenge stemming from the implementation of procurement policies and regulations is eminent in the commuter bus sector. This article explores policies and regulations that inform the procurement practices in the commuter bus sector in South Africa. The article is based on a theoretical analytical review. Based on the review, the policies and regulation procurement practices in the sector could be classified into pre- and post-1994. The implications of the policies and regulations have an adverse effect on the socio-economic objective of the country. Currently, the policies and regulations are not fully implemented and the commuter bus sector continues to face challenges that are a reflection of the current realities in South Africa. The findings of the article suggest that there are inconsistencies in the implementation of procurement policies and regulations in this sector compared to the enacted principles in the key policies.