This training aims for better execution of infrastructure projects in West and Central African countries.
The Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (ARCOP) of Senegal, in partnership with the World Bank, is organizing training sessions dedicated to the management of FIDIC works contracts. The latter is a standard contract to formalize design and construction agreements on large international projects.
This major event, which is being held from June 3 to 7, 2024 in Dakar, brings together more than fifty public procurement specialists from around ten countries in the region.
The main objective is to strengthen the skills of agents involved in infrastructure projects financed by the World Bank, in particular procurement specialists and contract managers.
“ This event is of capital importance, because our countries, located on this continent, are in the midst of a development phase. […] This training will enable better contract management, particularly physical contracts, which will influence the quality of contracts concluded as part of development work. », Underlined Cheikh Fatma Diop, Chief of Staff of the Minister of Vocational Training.
Laurent Mehdi Brito, senior procurement specialist at the World Bank, insisted on the need for better management of works contracts. “ We have seen numerous deficiencies in these works contracts, including work completed at lower quality than desired, longer completion time and problems caused by delays. […] This training in contract management will allow those who are active in this field, in particular works contracts, to have the mechanisms and knowledge necessary to better administer contracts. “, he indicated.
The issues of good governance in the execution of contracts will also be at the heart of the discussions. Cheikh Fatma Diop thus recalled that this axis is at the heart of the trajectory taken by the new authorities to achieve more efficient governance.
Saer Niang, Director General of ARCOP, expanded on the issues related to the execution of works contracts. “ In Senegal today, we have mastered the procurement phase. […] However, where the state loses money, here as elsewhere, is in execution. The new challenge today is therefore in execution, and more precisely in the execution of works contracts “, he noted.
The key role of FIDIC contracts
Yann Schneller, FIDIC certified trainer, explained the importance of FIDIC contracts in the management of international infrastructure projects. According to Mr. Schneller, the FIDIC contract, and more precisely the Red Book, is the oldest of the FIDIC contracts. […] In many countries there is no standard contract. In these countries, FIDIC contracts are often used. They are the most used contract model internationally.
He also highlighted the particularity of FIDIC contracts in the balanced sharing of risks and responsibilities between the parties.
This intensive training, covering the provisions of the FIDIC Red Book and contractual management, aims to provide participants with the necessary skills for better execution of infrastructure projects financed by the World Bank in the region.
ARD/ac/APA
