The Independent Procurement Review Panel (IPRP) has launched an investigation into the Free Education Project Secretariat following a complaint alleging procurement irregularities.

Tiwai Memory Master (SL) Limited, a local company, filed the complaint, accusing the Secretariat of improper practices in the acquisition and distribution of high-speed network printers, ink cartridges, and other ICT equipment for the TSC Resource Centre.

The IPRP, established under Section 65(1) of Public Act No. 10 of 2016, acts as an independent body to review complaints and appeals from aggrieved bidders and contractors regarding procurement decisions made by public entities. In a press release issued on December 28, 2023, the IPRP emphasized its role in upholding transparency and fairness in Sierra Leone’s procurement system, governed by the Public Procurement Act No. 10 of 2016 and Regulation Statutory Instrument No. 15 of 2020.

The ongoing investigation involves Tiwai Memory Master Sierra Leone Limited as the appellant and the Free Quality Education Project Secretariat as the respondent. The IPRP assured the public that the findings of the investigation will be made public once completed.

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This probe reflects the IPRP’s commitment to ensuring accountability and efficiency in the utilization of public resources, particularly in initiatives like the Free Quality Education program. A transparent and ethical procurement process is crucial for the program’s success and the effective delivery of quality education to all Sierra Leonean children.