Accra: Corruption in procurement is weakening trust, discouraging investment, and undermining economic growth across many African countries, Global Chief Executive Officer of the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS), Benedict Farrell, has said.
According to Ghana Web, in a post-event interview with B and FT at the 'Great Conversation' leadership engagement session held in Accra, Farrell emphasized the need for countries to strengthen ethical standards, transparency, and accountability within procurement systems to attract investment and build stronger economies. He highlighted that trust and ethical best practices are essential, noting that corruption in procurement remains a major concern for many African governments, which in turn affects investor confidence and economic growth.
The engagement session was part of CIPS' global 'Great Conversation' initiative, bringing together policymakers, procurement professionals, institutions, and business leaders to discuss the future of procurement and supply chains. The Accra meeting addressed issues such as value-for-money, public accountability, procurement reforms, infrastructure delivery, supply chain resilience, and professional development.
Farrell pointed out that procurement professionals worldwide are under increasing pressure due to geopolitical tensions, tariff uncertainties, global conflicts, and supply chain disruptions that have become more pronounced post-COVID-19. He noted that procurement has evolved from a mere administrative function to a central component of governance, economic growth, and institutional efficiency.
He further stated that while procurement professionals are often blamed for corruption, the larger issue in many countries is external influence over contract awards and the acquisition of goods and services. Farrell advocated for stronger ethical standards, supported by technology and artificial intelligence, to enhance transparency and accountability within procurement systems. He also stressed the need for countries to invest in training and professionalizing procurement practices to enhance efficiency and value-for-money in the public sector.
Farrell highlighted the potential to drive procurement best practices and economic growth simultaneously by strengthening professionalism and accountability to ensure procurement systems deliver real value to citizens. He underscored the importance of clear governance structures within procurement institutions, noting that accountability is often compromised when responsibilities are poorly defined.
Discussions with government officials will focus on public procurement strategies, inward investment opportunities, and ways to strengthen procurement capacity throughout the country. Country Director of Harley Reed Ghana, Madam Edith Uyovbukerhi, stated that the company's partnership with CIPS is crucial in bolstering procurement and supply chain professionalism across Africa, offering CIPS-accredited training, advisory services, and competency development initiatives.
In a welcome address on behalf of the Ghana Branch Chair for CIPS, Professor Innocent Senyo Kwesi Acquah emphasized the critical role of procurement professionals in public sector transformation, infrastructure delivery, and resilient supply chain development. He noted that technological disruptions, climate pressures, and geopolitical changes are increasing the importance of ethical and sustainable procurement practices.
General Manager of CIPS West Africa, Stella Addo, described procurement as a strategic function central to governance, infrastructure development, and national resilience. She highlighted the rapid evolution of the profession, which now demands a new generation of commercially minded, technologically-aware, and ethically grounded professionals. Addo emphasized that procurement systems are crucial in helping governments protect public resources, improve accountability, and manage growing economic and operational risks.