The Public Procurement Authority (PPA) will begin its nationwide assessment of public institutions' procurement activities in May 2026. This annual exercise will collect data from the 2024 and 2025 financial years.
This assessment follows Sections 3(d) and (h) of the Public Procurement Act, 2003 (Act 663), as amended. Teams will examine procurement records and related documents across various government institutions. Public institutions must prepare and provide all relevant records for a smooth process.
This initiative is vital for Ghana's ongoing efforts to improve public financial management. Ghana has faced criticism for perceived corruption and inefficiencies in public sector spending, as noted by various good governance organisations. A 2023 report by the Ghana Anti-Corruption Coalition, for example, highlighted numerous irregularities in public procurements impacting state finances. Ensuring transparent and efficient procurement practices can help reduce budget shortfalls and improve the allocation of public funds. The government's commitment to fiscal discipline and debt sustainability, following its domestic debt restructuring in 2023, underlines the importance of such oversight.
The PPA stated the assessment intends to improve efficiency, accountability, and transparency in public procurement across the country. Teams will review documents including procurement plans, tender documents, evaluation reports, contract awards, and payment records. The PPA also noted that compliance with sustainable public procurement practices will be part of the review.
This rigorous evaluation will likely lead to greater scrutiny of public expenditure. Decision-makers and financial markets will watch for the assessment's findings, which could influence public confidence and foreign investment. Improved procurement practices could result in better value for money in government projects, potentially freeing up GHS millions for other development initiatives. Furthermore, a transparent procurement system may positively impact Ghana's credit ratings and economic outlook. The PPA has urged all public entities to cooperate fully with the assessment teams.
The Authority encourages institutions to contact its Compliance, Monitoring and Evaluation Directorate for any necessary clarification. This ongoing monitoring mechanism is a crucial step towards strengthening governance and ensuring public funds serve their intended purpose. The findings could also inform future policy adjustments in procurement law. Effective oversight is essential for maintaining investor confidence and achieving long-term economic stability in Ghana and its regional economy.