Committee to fight corruption in procurement inaugurated

As part of measures to help fight corruption in public procurement and prevent waste in the country’s public financial management system, the Ministry of Procurement in collaboration with Public Procurement Authority (PPA) has inaugurated the professional ethics and standards committee to be in charge to ensure sanity is attained in the procurement field.

Minister of State in charge of procurement Sarah Adwoa Safo who graced the occasion and inaugurated the committee noted that for the country to achieve the Ghana Beyond Aid vision by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo, corruption in public procurement and possible conflict of interest must be checked so as to attain value for money in all procurement activities.

She added that globally the best procurement practices have emphasized the relevance of creating guidelines or code of ethics to guide procurement practitioners in the performance of their duties.

This she said is imperative due to the country’s obligations imposed on her by the United Nations Convention Against Corruption in article 8(2) which states that:

 ‘’Each state party shall endeavor to apply within its own constitutional and legal systems, codes or standards of conduct for the correct, honorable and proper performance of public functions.’’

The minister charged members of the committee to commit themselves fully to the assignment and work assiduously to formulate a well-researched and practical document that will guide and regulate the attitude, actions and behaviors of procurement practitioners.

Chief executive officer for Public Procurement Authority (PPA), A.B. Adjei adding his voice said procurement ought to be given the full recognition.

According to him, it is about time some sanity is experienced in the procurement sector to help curb the issues of bribery and corruption which are usually associated with procurement.

The sixteen-member committee is chaired by Stella Aku Addo who is the Country Manager of Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS). She promised to work the extra mile to help shape the procurement sector.

The formulation of the committee will serve in the interest of the public and public officials by maintaining and strengthening the public institutions and demonstrating the highest standards of professional competence, efficiency and effectiveness. It would uphold relevant international treaties or conventions, the constitution, procurement laws, regulations and manuals.

The committee is expected to present to the minister its report, proposals and recommendations within three months after the inauguration.

THERESA ADEZEWA AYITTEY||APT NEWS