In a defining moment for Sierra Leone’s public financial management reform, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Public Procurement Authority (NPPA), Mr. Fodie J. Konneh, 6th May 2025, took center stage during a high-level presentation of the 2020–2023 Annual Public Procurement Compliance Assessment Reports to His Excellency, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio.
At the heart of the ceremony was Mr. Konneh’s compelling articulation of sweeping reforms under his leadership, including the digitization of procurement systems, review of procurement thresholds, promotion of SME participation, and efforts to create a level playing field for all suppliers and contractors nationwide.
With conviction, the CEO underscored the Authority’s progress in introducing transformative strategies to enhance transparency, reduce corruption, and support local businesses.
Highlighting key achievements, Mr. Konneh pointed to the digitization efforts as a cornerstone reform that not only improves efficiency but also helps minimize physical contact with public funds—drastically curbing leakages and supporting prudent financial management. “Digitization is not just a tool—it is our pathway to accountability, integrity, and local economic empowerment,” he emphasized.
The CEO also presented updates on the recent launch of the Methodology for Assessing Procurement Systems (MAPS), with support from the African Development Bank and the World Bank, noting that the assessment would guide further policy reforms and reinforce NPPA’s efforts in promoting sustainable procurement practices across the public sector. As part of the reform agenda, NPPA has paid a six-year subscription to the African Public Procurement Network (APPN) to enhance collaboration and benchmarking across the continent.
Through targeted training programs for NPPA staff, practitioners, and MDAs, Konneh emphasized the Authority’s commitment to building procurement capacity at all levels. He also reaffirmed that contract monitoring has been prioritized as a mechanism for value assurance.
Board Chairman Mr. Albert H. Kandeh, lending institutional support to the CEO’s presentation, outlined the strategic trajectory of public procurement reforms under Mr. Konneh’s stewardship. He praised the President’s consistent support, and advocated for a dedicated workshop day to engage stakeholders further on policy implications and future directions.
In his response, President Bio commended Mr. Konneh and the NPPA team for a job well done. Acknowledging the complex environment in which the Authority operates, the President admitted that procurement reforms often face resistance from those wishing to circumvent systems. Yet, he praised the NPPA’s resolve. “Your leadership has brought direction and discipline to this reform journey,” the President affirmed.
President Bio also endorsed the push towards full digitization, stating that it would significantly reduce interface with money and ensure tighter fiscal controls.
While noting the inevitable challenges of change management, he urged NPPA to stay firm. “Even when people try to beat the system, your vigilance must ensure the system works,” he said.
The President further encouraged Mr. Konneh and his team to consolidate gains and strengthen institutional leadership.
He acknowledged that though procurement is a technical field, public understanding of its significance must grow; and NPPA has a role in shaping that narrative.
In a moment of national reflection, the presentation ceremony reaffirmed that under the direction of CEO Fodie J. Konneh, NPPA is no longer a passive administrative body but a frontline institution leading Sierra Leone’s accountability and governance reforms. The comprehensive reports delivered offer not just data—but a roadmap for a smarter, fairer, and more efficient public procurement landscape.
