Procurement specialist Kobina Atta-Bedi has critiqued the Ghanaian government's use of sole-sourced contracts, specifically under the 'Big Push' initiative. He argues that the Public Procurement Authority misapplied Section 41B of the Public Procurement Act, which allows for expedited processes in emergencies. Atta-Bedi stated that international guidelines, such as the World Bank’s Fast-Track E...
StatsGH Editor
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Management consultant and procurement specialist Kobina Atta-Bedi has openly criticized the Ghanaian government's approach to procurement. His concerns focus on the government's use of sole-sourced contracts, especially those linked to the 'Big Push' and Agenda 111 projects.
Atta-Bedi pointed out that the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) wrongly used Section 41B of the Public Procurement Act. This section allows for faster procurement in emergency situations. However, Atta-Bedi says the PPA did not follow international guidelines from the World Bank. These guidelines, known as Fast-Track Emergency Procurement, fast-track processes but still demand competitive bidding, not direct contract awards.
He cited his experience leading procurement for the COVID-19 Private Sector Fund. His team built a 100-bed facility for less than GHS 95 million (under $8 million), using competitive tenders even during urgent times. This shows that competitive buying can be fast and efficient.
Atta-Bedi compared this to projects like Agenda 111, which he suggests have higher costs without clear competitive bidding. He raised questions about how a smaller facility could cost GHS 225 million to GHS 250 million (equal to $19 million to $21 million).
His core message is that public funds require transparent and competitive procurement, even in emergencies. He urges the government to adopt international best practices to prevent high costs and ensure fair processes.
