The National Public Procurement Authority (NPPA) achieved a significant milestone on Wednesday, 4th September 2024, with the launch of its First Quarter 2024 Bulletin and 4th Quarter Price Norm at the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development conference hall, Tower Hill, Freetown.

The event was led by NPPA Chief Executive Officer, Fodie J Konneh, who stressed the importance of not just launching such documents but also ensuring their effective use to maintain compliance and enhance transparency in public procurement

In his keynote address, CEO Konneh highlighted the essential role of the NPPA in preserving the integrity of Sierra Leone’s decentralized procurement system. He compared the launch of documents to a wedding, noting that while the ceremony is important, it is the ongoing commitment—the marriage, that truly matters. Similarly, the true value of the NPPA’s regulatory instruments lies in their consistent application.

“The NPPA has been leading procurement reforms in Sierra Leone for over 20 years, beginning with the decentralization of procurement entities in 2004,” said Konneh. He pointed out that without a strong regulatory authority, the risks in a decentralized system could include widespread corruption. The NPPA, he asserted, is crucial for ensuring compliance, monitoring activities, and providing a level playing field for all suppliers.

Konneh also identified a significant challenge: the lack of compliance with the Standard Procurement Forms (SPF6) across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). Despite being established 20 years ago, less than 50% of MDAs currently adhere to these forms. To combat this, he announced that the NPPA would take stricter actions against those who fail to meet the monthly reporting requirements.

The CEO further discussed the NPPA’s efforts to improve procurement processes through capacity building, particularly in contract management, a critical area where the NPPA has historically underperformed. He emphasized the need to go beyond the bidding process to ensure that projects deliver true value for money.

Konneh provided updates on the progress of the Electronic Government Procurement (e-GP) system, which is now in its implementation stage. He expressed confidence that once fully operational, the e-GP system would reduce inefficiencies, enhance audit processes, and improve data and record management within the procurement sector.

The launch event also introduced updated procurement thresholds, which will take effect in September 2024. These adjustments are intended to address inflationary pressures and will significantly increase the maximum limits for goods, services, and works under both National and International Competitive Bidding processes.

Michael Lahai Swarray, Acting Director of Procurement at the Ministry of Finance, commended the NPPA for its progress and urged all practitioners to comply fully with the new Price Norm and Bulletin.

Board Chairman Alfred H Kandeh praised CEO Konneh for his leadership and the NPPA’s strides in establishing best practices in Sierra Leone’s procurement sector. He reassured attendees of the Board’s commitment to guiding the NPPA in the right direction.

William M. B. S. Lamin, representing the Civil Society Consortium and Community Accountability Service Delivery, also expressed appreciation for the NPPA’s collaborative efforts. He encouraged procurement practitioners to utilize the newly launched documents to ensure accountability and value for money in public service delivery.

The event, which attracted participants from across the procurement sector, Civil Society Organizations, the Ministry of Finance, and the media, was chaired by Sylvester Bockarie Alie, Deputy Director of Administration and Human Resources at NPPA.