By: Saidu Jalloh
The National Public Procurement Authority (NPPA) of Sierra Leone has joined procurement leaders, policymakers, and development partners from across Africa at the 5th General Assembly of the African Public Procurement Network (APPN), currently taking place in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The assembly, themed “Africa at a Turning Point,” focuses on deepening procurement reforms, strengthening accountability, and accelerating sustainable development through transparent and efficient public procurement systems.
Led by Chief Executive Mr. Fodie J. Konneh, who also serves as the Alternate Vice President of the APPN, Sierra Leone’s strong participation underscores the country’s growing leadership in advancing professional, people-centered procurement systems across Africa
The second day of the assembly opened with a reflective session before APPN President, Dr. C. Ruswa, delivered an inspiring address that set the tone for the day.
“Public procurement is the invisible infrastructure upon which service delivery stands,” he declared, emphasizing that effective procurement drives the very systems that sustain hospitals, schools, roads, and water services. “Africa cannot underestimate the power of procurement as a strategic tool,” he urged, calling for bold investments in resilient and transparent systems. Key development partners also gave powerful interventions, reaffirming their commitment to Africa’s procurement reform journey.
Ms. Eneida Fernandes, World Bank Country Manager, described Africa as “standing on the threshold of a procurement transformation,” pledging the Bank’s continued support for reforms that strengthen inclusion and rebuild public trust.
Mr. Frank Mvula from the African Development Bank noted that “procurement can and must be a catalyst for change,” stressing that smarter, faster, and more inclusive procurement is essential for the continent’s economic transformation.
Ms. Ndeye Fatou Diongue from the Islamic Development Bank added an optimistic note, saying Africa is “defining the moment” in the way it approaches procurement not as bureaucracy, but as a pathway to empowerment and dignity.
Mr. Kofi Awanyo, representing the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, emphasized the transformative potential of technology, stating that “Building infrastructure for tomorrow requires strategic alignment today.”
Mr. Aftar Toure Morou, APPN Technical Secretary, reflected on the Network’s growth since its last assembly in Kigali. He highlighted the thousands who have benefitted from APPN’s knowledge platforms, calling for deeper regional cooperation. “If Africa is to compete globally,” he cautioned, “we must empower our people, harmonize data, and strengthen our capacity-building frameworks.”
His remarks were met with applause, reminding delegates that Africa’s reform path, while challenging, is achievable and vital.
Delivering the official opening speech, Hon. Gen (Rtd.) Dr. C.G.D.N. Chiwenga, Vice President of Zimbabwe, reaffirmed his country’s political commitment to strengthening procurement institutions. “Our political will is clear,” he affirmed. “Zimbabwe is determined to build systems that are accountable, responsive, and capable of transforming public service delivery across Africa.”
In this atmosphere of shared purpose, NPPA’s delegation led by Mr. Konneh and supported by his Deputy Chief Executive and senior management staff stood out as a symbol of Sierra Leone’s dedication to procurement reform. Their engagement sent a clear message: Sierra Leone is not on the periphery of Africa’s procurement transformation; it is actively shaping its direction. Under Mr. Konneh’s leadership, NPPA continues to champion transparency, professionalization, and systems that serve citizens rather than institutions.
The afternoon sessions focused on the power of procurement to stimulate employment and inclusion. During a session titled “Public Procurement as a Catalyst for Job Creation,” Professor Ron Watermeyer stressed that “employment through procurement is no longer optional but essential.”
Discussions from the World Bank and the African Development Bank further emphasized the need for climate-smart, digital, and accountable procurement systems to meet Africa’s development goals. Delegates engaged in lively exchanges, seeking actionable solutions rather than just policy statements.
The day concluded with a thought-provoking panel on Professionalization and Capacity Building. One panelist’s statement “Capacity building is not an event; it is a commitment” captured the essence of the discussion and resonated deeply with participants.
As the sun set over Victoria Falls, delegates gathered at The BOMA for a cultural celebration of Zimbabwean heritage. The sounds of drums, songs, and dance filled the night, symbolizing the unity, resilience, and optimism that define Africa’s reform journey.
By the end of Day Two, one message was unmistakable: Africa is entering a new era of procurement reform one built on trust, transparency, and transformation. And in Victoria Falls, amid the roar of the Zambezi River, Sierra Leone’s NPPA reaffirmed its place among the leaders shaping that future.
