MOMBASA - The Kenya Institute of Supplies Management (KISM) has significantly advanced its aim to become the Pan-African Centre for Supply Chain Management, largely due to support from the World Bank. This collaboration has notably enhanced the professional skills of KISM members across Africa, focusing on procurement and comprehensive supply chain management practices.
According to Kenya News Agency, speaking at the closing ceremony of a 10-day Intermediate Course Training in Mombasa, the World Bank's involvement has been instrumental in broadening the expertise of KISM members. This training, part of a series funded by the World Bank, covers Procurement of Goods, Works, and Consulting Services and aims to instill a holistic understanding of procurement processes that adhere to international standards.
Karani emphasized the success of the training programs, which started in 2019 and have so far benefited over 3,000 members. The courses are structured in progressive levels—basic, intermediate, and advanced—with the latest intermediate session attracting 138 participants. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to build internal capacity within KISM and ensure its members can lead supply chain management practices not just in Kenya but across the continent.
"The World Bank has been a great partner in helping us entrench and enhance our pan-African agenda," Karani reiterated. He noted that with the World Bank's support, KISM has developed a cadre of homegrown trainers who are now capable of training others, thereby multiplying the impact of their programs.
Institutional strengthening has been a key focus for KISM, with recent efforts including the recruitment of seven directors and the appointment of a new CEO, who is described by Karani as a world-class professional. This team is set to drive the institute's capacity building, resource mobilization, publicity, and compliance initiatives.
Karani also addressed compliance and licensing within the supply chain sector, stressing that companies engaged in supply chain management must be properly registered and licensed. He warned that those operating without a license would be subject to disciplinary actions by KISM's committee, which includes a thorough investigative process.
Despite the stringent measures, Karani highlighted that the institute provides a fair hearing process, ensuring that those removed from the register can present their case, reflecting KISM's commitment to fairness and professional integrity in its regulatory role.