A critical analysis of social procurement obstacles: insights from contractors and clients in Botswana

Joseph Kuruneri; Ayodeji Michael Obadire; Muneinashe Dube; Wiston Mudzingwa Zvivanai

doi:10.1108/mscra-06-2024-0022

journal article Open Access Jan 19, 2026

A critical analysis of social procurement obstacles: insights from contractors and clients in Botswana

Joseph Kuruneri

Ayodeji Michael Obadire Muneinashe Dube Wiston Mudzingwa Zvivanai

Modern Supply Chain Research and Applications Vol. 8 No. 1 pp. 47-78 · Emerald

View at Publisher Save 10.1108/mscra-06-2024-0022

Abstract

Purpose
This study aims to examine the barriers associated with the implementation of social procurement (SP) from the vantage points of contractors and clients as key stakeholders in the Botswana construction industry. The study further offers recommendations to mitigate these identified barriers, providing valuable insights for decision-makers in the construction sector looking to maximize the benefits of SP.

Design/methodology/approach
The study employed semi-structured interviews to collect data from 31 respondents. Barriers to SP implementation were assessed within the four domains of the study's conceptual framework: resources, procurement practices, policy and regulation and socio-cultural aspects. Subsequently, the researcher conducted a thematic analysis of the gathered data to arrive at the findings.

Findings
The study highlights that key stakeholders in the construction sector are significantly affected by the same barriers hindering the implementation of SP in both developing and developed countries, though at varying rates. Fronting is one of the obstacles discovered in the study, which is not common in most developed countries where SP research is advanced.

Research limitations/implications
The study's shortcomings include a lack of generalization due to the convenience sampling technique used and the lack of empirical research on SP in Botswana.

Social implications
This research provides essential guidance for key stakeholders in overcoming SP implementation challenges. Furthermore, it gives the government information to improve social value initiatives.

Originality/value
This research is the first to assess SP obstacles in Botswana and adds to the conversation on SP implementation in developing countries.

Topics

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Details

Published: Jan 19, 2026
Vol/Issue: 8(1)
Pages: 47-78
License: View

Authors

J

Joseph Kuruneri

School of Finance and Professional Studies, Botswana Accountancy College , ,

A

Ayodeji Michael Obadire

School of Finance and Professional Studies, Botswana Accountancy College , ,

M

Muneinashe Dube

School of Finance and Professional Studies, Botswana Accountancy College , ,

W

Wiston Mudzingwa Zvivanai

BA ISAGO University Department of Business Management, , ,

Cite This Article

Joseph Kuruneri, Ayodeji Michael Obadire, Muneinashe Dube, et al. (2026). A critical analysis of social procurement obstacles: insights from contractors and clients in Botswana. Modern Supply Chain Research and Applications, 8(1), 47-78. https://doi.org/10.1108/mscra-06-2024-0022

A critical analysis of social procurement obstacles: insights from contractors and clients in Botswana

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