Public Procurement Practices and Sustainable Performance of Water and Sanitation Corporation in Rwanda

Abstract: This study examined the effect of public procurement processes on the sustainable performance of public institutions in Rwanda, focusing on the Water and Sanitation Corporation. The research specifically assessed the influence of inventory management, procurement contract management, preferences and reservations in procurement, and procurement methods on sustainable performance. The study is important because it highlights how effective procurement practices can improve resource utilization, service delivery, and sustainability in public institutions while addressing operational challenges in developing countries. The study was guided by Institutional Theory, Resource-Based Theory, Stakeholder Theory, and Triple Bottom Line Theory. The target population consisted of 174 management personnel from different departments within WASAC, from which a sample of 122 respondents was selected using Slovin’s formula and stratified sampling techniques. Data were collected mainly through structured questionnaires based on a five-point Likert scale, supported by secondary data sources. A pilot study involving 13 WASAC staff members from Kicukiro District was conducted to test the instruments. Validity was assessed through face, criterion, and content validity, while reliability was measured using Cronbach’s Alpha. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25, employing descriptive statistics, regression analysis, and correlation analysis. The findings revealed that all procurement-related variables had a positive and statistically significant effect on sustainable performance. Procurement methods had the strongest influence (β = 0.506, p < .001), followed by inventory management (β = 0.230, p < .001), preferences and reservations in procurement (β = 0.219, p < .001), and procurement contract management (β = 0.142, p = .005). The study concluded that effective procurement practices significantly enhance the sustainable performance of public institutions in Rwanda. It recommended strengthening procurement planning, improving contract management, and promoting transparent inventory and supplier management practices to improve sustainability and service delivery. Future studies should examine the role of digital procurement technologies and stakeholder engagement across different sectors and regions. Keywords: Public Procurement, Sustainable Performance, Water, Sanitation Corporation, Rwanda. Title: Public Procurement Practices and Sustainable Performance of Water and Sanitation Corporation in Rwanda Author: Ange Carine Muhayimana, Dr. Samson Njenga Gitahi International Journal of Management and Commerce Innovations ISSN 2348-7585 (Online) Vol. 14, Issue 1, April 2026 - September 2026 Page No: 399-411 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 19-May-2026 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20284730 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/public-procurement-practices-and-sustainable-performance-of-water-and-sanitation-corporation-in-rwanda