Bold claim: professionalising procurement is essential to safeguard public resources and drive real “value for every cedi” spent. The Public Procurement Authority (PPA) chair, Basil Ahiable, is urging Parliament to speedily pass the Procurement Professionalisation Bill that sits before the House. He argues the bill is a cornerstone for tighter public financial management and aligns with the President’s Reset Agenda for a disciplined, efficient, and performance-driven public sector.
Public procurement represents a substantial portion of government spending, roughly 40-50 percent. Internal assessments by the PPA, alongside international benchmarks, suggest that Ghana could save at least two to three billion cedis annually if procurement is fully professionalised. These savings would come from more effective sourcing, reduced violations, stronger value-for-money discipline, and diminished financial leakages.
Ahiable noted that nations that have strengthened procurement capacity and enforced professional standards have witnessed notable gains in transparency, cost reductions, and public confidence. “Professionalising procurement is a national development imperative,” he said, adding that a system built on certified professionals and robust ethics will directly support the Reset Agenda by cutting waste, boosting accountability, and delivering genuine value for every cedi spent.
Joining the Chairman in supporting the bill, PPA Chief Executive Officer Frank Mante highlighted both immediate and long-term advantages. “This Bill will foster a new ecosystem of skilled procurement professionals capable of safeguarding the public purse. It stands as one of the most important efficiency milestones for Ghana’s future,” Mante stated.
Dr. Simon Annan, President of the Ghana Institute of Procurement and Supply (GIPS), reiterated the Institute’s strong backing for the legislation, stressing that it would promote professionalism and ethical procurement practices. “Professionalisation is the bedrock of ethical, transparent, and value-driven procurement. Passing this Bill will reinforce professional integrity and position Ghana among the world leaders in procurement excellence,” Annan remarked.
Concluding, the PPA chairman reaffirmed the Authority’s readiness to provide technical support, capacity-building frameworks, and transition guidance to public institutions once the Bill becomes law. Ahiable emphasized that the reform aims to protect national resources, enhance service delivery, and strengthen public trust, urging timely action.