The National Public Procurement Authority (NPPA) on Monday conducted a Supplier Registration Training as part of ongoing efforts to transition Sierra Leone’s public procurement system from a manual framework to a fully digitised platform through the Electronic Government Procurement (E-GP) system.

The session commenced with a welcoming address by the Director of Information and Communication Technology, Dr. Baba M. Turay, who underscored the importance of digital transformation in enhancing transparency, efficiency, and accountability in public procurement. He noted that the E-GP initiative marks a major milestone in modernising procurement processes and improving service delivery across government institutions.

Following the opening remarks, E-GP Local Consultant Mr. Alie Bangura delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining the existing manual supplier registration and procurement processes and explaining how they are being transitioned into the electronic platform via the E-GP portal. His presentation highlighted the system’s potential to reduce paperwork, minimise delays, and improve accessibility for stakeholders.

The training emphasised that the E-GP system is being implemented in phases to allow users to gradually adapt to the new digital environment. As a web-based platform, the system will manage the full procurement lifecycle  from planning and bidding to evaluation, contract award, and closure.

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A key focus of the session was the Supplier Registration Module, which serves as the official entry point for contractors and suppliers into the E-GP system. Registration begins with the creation of an online account, followed by submission of business and compliance information. Upon completion, suppliers are required to pay for their registration certificate into the official NPPA account at any recognised commercial bank.

Suppliers were encouraged to register early, as the supplier registration certificate is valid for one calendar year, from January to December. Early registration will ensure uninterrupted eligibility to participate in government procurement activities throughout the year.

The training was organised as a Training-of-Trainers session involving NPPA staff who will be responsible for supporting suppliers during the registration process. The approach is intended to strengthen staff capacity to provide hands-on guidance, respond to inquiries, and ensure a smooth onboarding experience nationwide.

Participants were reminded that, although the E-GP system comprises several modules, supplier registration carries particular significance, as it becomes effective on 1 January 2026. From that date, all contractors and suppliers seeking to do business with the Government of Sierra Leone will be required to register through the E-GP Supplier Registration System.

The training reinforces NPPA’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and value for money in public spending, in line with its mandate to promote an efficient, credible, and results-driven public procurement system in Sierra Leone.