The Ghana Institute of Procurement and Supply (GIPS) has reiterated its call for qualified and ethical professionals to lead procurement procedures in both public and private organisations in order to reduce infractions.
Simon Annan, President of the Institute, stated at the induction of new members on the theme “shaping the future of procurement and supply chain through professionalism” that prudent procurement remains a critical tool for real job creation and economic growth.
Despite the critical role of procurement in the country’s development, he claims that none of the government entities have procurement professionals on their audit committees.
As a result, he recommended that procurement professionals be included on the various audit committees to help reduce procurement infractions, which account for roughly 70% of audit findings.
According to Mr. Annan, the institute’s goal is to create a vibrant procurement chain in Ghana that can champion value-driven and ethical procurement and supply.
To assist them in meeting those objectives, he stated that the Institute has undertaken several activities since taking office in 2020 to ensure the passage of the procurement practise bill.
Mr. Annan also praised the contributions of all institutions, particularly KPMG, GIMPA, and others, who worked to provide technical support for the smooth passage of the procurement practise bill.
Call for speedy passage of Procurement Bill
Director General of the Internal Audit Agency (IAA), Dr. Eric Oduro Osae for his part said procurement remains critical to the implementation of programmes and projects in the development of the country hence the need for government to regulate the procurement practice and supply chain management to enable it to get value for money in its spending.
“I urge Parliament and Government to consider the speedy passage of the Ghana Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply Bill to regulate procurement professionals locally, provide statutory authority for the operation of GCIPS to facilitate consistency, standardization and uniformity in the application of procurement and supply chain management rules and practices in Ghana,” he added.
Induction of new members
GIPS has inducted new members into the Institute for their passion and commitment towards achieving sound procurement practices.
Out of the 127 people inducted include student members, Associate members, fellow members and honourary members.
Prof. Douglas Boateng, a seasoned industrialist, and an international chartered director who is also an engineer was inducted as a distinguished fellow of the Institution.
