Beyond Panacea: Deconstructing the Multifaceted Relationship between Procurement Accountability and Quality in the County Government of Kitui, Kenya

Abstract

Procurement and supply chain processes in public administration are often scrutinized for their susceptibility to inefficiency and corruption. This research investigated the influence of different accountability mechanisms on the quality of procurement and supply chain management within the Kitui County government in Kenya. Moving beyond a simplistic notion of accountability as mere responsibility, the study adopted a nuanced approach, drawing upon agency theory and institutional theory to analyse the interplay between formal rules, oversight bodies, and stakeholder engagement in shaping procurement outcomes. It examined how these mechanisms influence key quality dimensions like cost-effectiveness, transparency, and value for money. A mixed-method was employed, utilizing both quantitative surveys within the Kitui County procurement department and qualitative interviews with key stakeholders. The coefficients of correlation and the P-values were as follows: Accountability (Beta= 0.774, P-value= 0.000<0.05) thus indicating a statistical significance, 1 point increase in accountability increases quality of procurement by 0.774 hence indicating a very strong positive influence. This research serves as a springboard for further investigation into the nuanced dynamics of accountability within public procurement and supply chain management, ultimately aiming to improve quality and deliver greater value for public institutions and their stakeholders