GIPS Calls for Strategic Procurement to Drive Inclusive Industrial Growth

Accra: Dr Simon Annan, President of the Ghana Institute of Procurement and Supply (GIPS), has advocated for procurement and supply chain management to be recognized as strategic drivers of inclusive and measurable national development. He emphasized that procurement should transcend its traditional transactional role to become a catalyst for industrialization, innovation, resilience, and tangible economic outcomes. According to Ghana News Agency, Dr Annan made his remarks at the second edition of the National Procurement and Supply Chain Conference (NPSC 2026) held in Accra. He highlighted the urgent need for the nation to link procurement more directly with industrialization and national results, urging procurement professionals to move beyond mere transaction processing to influence policies, strengthen institutions, and contribute to national transformation. Dr Annan underscored the importance of developing procurement systems that support industrial growth and create opportunities for businesses and eme rging enterprises. He reiterated GIPS's advocacy for the passage of the Procurement Practicing Bill, describing it as essential for regulated and ethical procurement practices. He called for sustained efforts to pass the Bill, emphasizing that world-class procurement outcomes require competent and ethical professionals. The two-day conference gathered procurement professionals, policymakers, business leaders, academics, and experts to discuss sustainable approaches to improving procurement practices in Ghana. Themed 'Powering Transformation: Smart, Inclusive, and Resilient Procurement and Supply Chains for National Development,' the event featured panel discussions and paper presentations on building resilient procurement systems to support sustainable development and economic growth. In a speech delivered on behalf of Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister of Finance, it was emphasized that strategic procurement practices could create markets for local industries and accelerate national development. He noted that linking procurement and supply to industrial policy could create reliable markets for local businesses, encourage investment, and generate employment. Mrs Evelyn Sam, Council Chair of GIPS, advocated for resilient supply chains capable of anticipating disruptions, diversifying risks, and strengthening local capacity. She emphasized that smart procurement should be guided by data and technology, while inclusive procurement should provide meaningful opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises and emerging businesses. Dr Annan concluded by stating that aligning procurement with national industrial and development priorities would ensure public expenditure generates broader economic value and contributes to sustainable growth.