According to an article of RACOP, African Public Procurement Network, the Director of Regulation and Legal Affairs (DRAJ) of ARCOP Senegal recently discussed the promising opportunities that artificial intelligence (AI) presents for public procurement in Senegal. The presentation, delivered during an international conference on AI and African law in Dakar, was structured around two key sub-themes: the regulation and governance of AI in business, and the principles of public order such as transparency, equal treatment, and fair competition.

Dr. Baye Samba Diop emphasized the importance of procedural rules, such as open calls for tender, to maintain the integrity of the public procurement process. He noted the crucial roles played by the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (ARCOP) and the Central Directorate of Public Procurement (DCMP) in ensuring preventive and repressive control, verifying conformity of files, opening bids, and evaluating offers.

AI's potential to revolutionize public procurement was a focal point of Dr. Diop's address. He highlighted how AI could improve sourcing for needs assessment and the implementation of procurement strategies, drawing parallels with advancements already seen in France. AI could also ensure quality data management and mitigate cybersecurity risks, thus enhancing the efficiency and transparency of the procurement process.

The event convened legal professionals, academics, business leaders, corporate lawyers, and AI specialists to deliberate on the intersection of AI and business law on a broader African scale. Dr. Diop's insights underscored the necessity of embracing AI to prevent the obsolescence of the current public procurement system, advocating for a proactive approach in leveraging this technology for future advancements.