Effects of Public Procurement Reforms on Service Delivery in the Kenyan Judiciary

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of public procurement reforms on service delivery in the Kenyan Judiciary. Procurement planning, public procurement practices, technology adoption, contract management and service delivery were the specific variables of the study. Resource-based theory was anchored in the study. A descriptive research design was adopted with a target population of 120 respondents and a sample of 42. Primary data was collected from respondents using a structured, closed-ended questionnaire. The study rejected the null hypotheses that procurement planning and contract management do not have effects on service delivery in the Kenyan Judiciary. The study accepted the null hypotheses that public procurement practices and technology adoption do not have effects on service delivery in the Kenyan Judiciary. The study concluded that participatory planning, top management commitment, and proper needs assessment contribute to timely delivery, cost efficiency, and quality service provision. Formal adherence to procurement laws alone does not guarantee improved service delivery. Policy frameworks are not fully operationalised or monitored effectively within judicial procurement systems. Procurement processes are not fully automated through IFMIS and e-GP platforms. The study recommended that service delivery in the Judiciary be improved by strengthening procurement planning, contract management, and technology integration, adopting participatory procurement planning, providing regular staff training, and enforcing clear contract monitoring systems with electronic tracking of performance and payments. Procurement processes are not fully automated through IFMIS and e-GP platforms, supported by continuous digital training for officers and reliable ICT infrastructure to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability. The output of this study will guide policymakers and public sector managers in strengthening procurement systems and practices, benefit procurement professionals, auditors, and regulatory agencies such as PPRA and EACC in enhancing compliance and accountability and contribute to scholarly discourse on governance and public sector reform.