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The National Public Procurement Authority (NPPA) and the Independent Procurement Review Panel (IPRP) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening accountability, transparency, and efficiency in Sierra Leone’s public procurement system.
Following a strategic engagement held at the Office of the Chief Executive Officer of NPPA.
The Chief Executive Officer of NPPA emphasized the Authority’s continued support for the work of the Review Panel, particularly in ensuring the effective enforcement of procurement decisions and reforms aimed at improving public sector service delivery.
He further highlighted that the revised Public Procurement Act has provided clearer distinctions regarding the roles and responsibilities of the Chairman and the Executive Secretary of the IPRP, thereby strengthening institutional governance and operational clarity within the procurement review process.
Speaking on behalf of the IPRP delegation, the Head of Delegation, Madam Emma Banya (Esq.), commended NPPA for the reforms introduced in the review of the 2016 Public Procurement Act. She noted that the IPRP has expanded its institutional presence across the country through the establishment of regional offices aimed at improving access to procurement review mechanisms.
The meeting also explored several reform-oriented proposals intended to improve the effectiveness and responsiveness of procurement review processes in Sierra Leone. Key among the discussions were proposals to introduce electronic hearings to facilitate the timely adjudication of procurement matters, improve panel operations, and enhance institutional efficiency.
The parties further discussed measures aimed at strengthening the mandate and operational framework of the IPRP, including provisions relating to contract termination advisory functions, timelines for compliance with rulings, and broader administrative reforms to support the effective resolution of procurement disputes.
Both institutions agreed that the issues discussed would be subjected to further technical review and consideration for inclusion in the forthcoming Public Procurement Regulations.
Finally, the engagement forms part of ongoing efforts by the NPPA to consolidate public procurement reforms and strengthen institutions responsible for promoting transparency, accountability, and value for money in public procurement across Sierra Leone.
