By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, Sierra Leone — President Julius Maada Bio has received the Annual Public Procurement Compliance Assessment Reports covering 2020 to 2023, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to strengthening accountability and efficiency in government spending.
The reports, presented by Chief Executive Officer of the National Public Procurement Authority (NPPA), Mr. Fodie J. Konneh, provide a comprehensive review of procurement practices across 178 Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), local councils, and government-funded projects. They assess compliance with procurement laws, highlight year-on-year progress, and outline persistent challenges while recommending strategic reforms to enhance transparency.
Key Findings and Challenges
CEO Fodie J. Konneh emphasized that the reports were compiled through evidence-based assessments, focusing on procurement efficiency, contract management, and transparency.
Key takeaways include:
- A steady increase in compliance, from 40% in 2021 to over 60% in 2023.
- Greater use of competitive bidding, particularly open bidding, as the preferred procurement method.
- Ongoing challenges such as weak recordkeeping, poor procurement planning, and gaps in post-award contract management.
Call for Digital Transformation
Mr. Konneh highlighted NPPA’s commitment to modernizing public procurement, stressing that digitizing procurement processes would help curb wasteful spending, enhance transparency, and improve government financial accountability.
In response, President Bio welcomed the push for digital reforms, describing them as critical to preventing financial leakages and maximizing value for public funds.
“As a government, we are focused on delivering value for money,” President Bio stated. “Moving procurement online reduces physical handling of funds, minimizes wastage, and ensures greater efficiency in public spending.”
He commended NPPA’s efforts while urging continued vigilance against corruption and financial mismanagement.
Strengthening Future Procurement Practices
President Bio also encouraged NPPA to mentor and train young procurement professionals, emphasizing the importance of knowledge transfer for future institutional growth.
“Use your expertise to guide and train others,” he advised. “Your continued diligence is vital to reinforcing public confidence in procurement systems.”
The presentation ceremony marks another significant step in Sierra Leone’s ongoing drive for transparency, efficiency, and digital modernization in public procurement.
For further inquiries, contact State House Media and Communications Unit at info@statehouse.gov.sl.