Documents you usually need to bid on a Kenyan tender

Always start with the tender document

Every tender lists its own required documents and some are mandatory. The list below is what is commonly asked for. Treat the tender document as the final word.

Company documents

These show that your business is legal and in good standing.

• Certificate of incorporation or business registration
• KRA PIN certificate
• A valid tax compliance certificate
• A valid business permit or trade licence
• Directors and shareholders information where asked
• AGPO certificate, if bidding on a reserved tender

Experience and capacity

These show you can do the work.

• Evidence of similar past work (contracts, LPOs, completion certificates)
• Referee letters or contacts
• CVs and certificates of key staff
• Evidence of equipment, premises or stock where relevant
• Financial statements or bank statements when asked

The bid itself

These are usually where bids are lost on technicalities.

• Completed and signed tender forms
• Priced bill of quantities or price schedule
• Technical proposal or method statement
• Tender security, with the right amount, validity and beneficiary
• Power of attorney or authorisation to sign, where needed

Final check before you submit

Make sure every page that must be signed, stamped or initialled is, that copies and labels follow the instructions, and that you deliver before the deadline and keep a receipt. A tick-list helps.