By Francis Ntow
Accra, May 19, GNA – Procurement experts have urged Ghana to shift from compliance-driven procurement to a value-centred approach to stimulate economic growth, curb corruption, and attract inward investment.
The call was made during the “Great Conversation” series held in Accra to promote dialogue on strengthening the procurement and supply profession to support business growth and national development.
Mr Ben Farrell, Global Chief Executive Officer of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS), said procurement professionals must make strategic contributions to national economies and business prosperity.
He expressed concern about undue external influence in the acquisition of contracts, goods, and services, saying it contributed to corruption in procurement processes.
Mr Farrell urged the Government to safeguard and empower procurement officials to root out corruption and create conditions that would attract inward investment and promote economic prosperity.
He stressed the need for accountability and clear governance structures to address procurement weaknesses and advocated the use of artificial intelligence (AI) alongside strong ethical standards at institutional and national levels.
Mr Farrell also called for improved procurement data systems to support decision-making, structured training and capacity building for officers, and enhanced proficiency across the public sector.
He said the Great Conversation series was being organised in several countries to gather views from procurement professionals on the future of the profession amid global conflicts, trade tariffs, and supply chain disruptions.
Madam Stella Addo, General Manager of CIPS West Africa, cautioned against treating procurement and supply professionals as an afterthought in purchasing decisions.
She said procurement professionals should be involved from the planning stage and work alongside stakeholders throughout the process to ensure value for money and reduce corruption.
“Procurement professionals want to create the table upon which decisions are made, and they must be recognised not as a compliance function but as a value-adding discipline that brings technical and ethical rigour to the management of public and private resources,” she said.
Madam Addo acknowledged concerns among professionals about the implications of AI and big data but said the technologies would enhance rather than threaten the profession and urged practitioners to upskill and adapt.
She described the Great Conversation as recognition of the profession’s evolution from a transactional role to a strategic function, adding that procurement should help shape national economic planning and management.
Madam Edith Uyovbukerhi, Country Director for Harley Reed Ghana, said the company’s collaboration with CIPS as a regional partner sought to strengthen the delivery of assurance, knowledge, and advisory services.
She announced that CIPS would compile submissions from the global Great Conversation series into a landmark document to be published in October to identify gaps in the profession, guide targeted skills development, and shape the future of procurement globally.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey
Reporter: Francis Ntow