Open Tendering
Above KES 50M 45 days
The default method for high-value contracts. Notice is published on the Open Contracting Portal and at least two newspapers of national circulation. Any qualified bidder may submit a proposal.
Services & procedures
Six recognised procedures.
One standard of fairness.
The Public Procurement Act recognises six distinct procedures for awarding public contracts. Each is matched to a specific value band and use case, with full rules laid out in the 2024 Regulations.
Restricted Tendering
KES 20M – 50M 30 days
Used when only a limited number of suppliers can technically meet the requirement. Pre-qualified bidders are invited directly, with the shortlist published for transparency.
Request for Proposals
Consultancy & advisory 60 days
Applied when the procuring entity needs a tailored solution rather than a standard commodity. Bidders are evaluated on methodology, qualifications and proposed fees.
Direct Procurement
Below KES 5M 14 days
Permitted only for low-value, off-the-shelf items or in genuine emergencies. Always requires a written justification and ex-post disclosure on the Open Contracting Portal.
Framework Agreements
Recurring needs Up to 3 years
Long-term arrangements with pre-qualified suppliers for goods or services that procuring entities need repeatedly. Mini-competitions are held for each call-off.
Two-Stage Tendering
Complex infrastructure 75 days
Used for major works or complex systems. Technical proposals are evaluated first; only compliant bidders proceed to the financial stage, reducing overall risk.
The procurement lifecycle
From need to award, in six stages.
Every public contract, regardless of procedure, follows the same statutory lifecycle. Each stage produces a public record.
1
Needs assessment
Procuring entity files a procurement plan justifying the requirement.
2
Tender notice
Notice published on the Open Contracting Portal with full specifications.
3
Bidder response
Suppliers submit sealed bids through the secure electronic portal.
4
Evaluation
Evaluation committee scores bids against published criteria.
5
Award & standstill
Notice of award issued; 10-day standstill for aggrieved bidders to object.
6
Contract signing
Contract published in full, with all annexes, on the Open Contracting Portal.
Ready to bid on a public contract?
Browse open tenders on the Open Contracting Portal or create a supplier account to receive alerts matching your category codes.