AYV News, April 23, 2026
The National Public Procurement Authority has stepped up efforts to ensure quality, accountability, and value for money in public infrastructure delivery, announcing a strategic transition from routine contract award follow-ups to comprehensive contract monitoring across government projects.
The reform, spearheaded by Chief Executive Officer Fodie J. Konneh, marks a significant institutional shift aimed at strengthening oversight of public works. Central to this transition is the creation of a dedicated Engineering Directorate to address longstanding technical capacity gaps, particularly in a sector that consumes a substantial share of government expenditure.
As part of its expanded mandate, the Directorate conducted high-level monitoring visits on April 22 and 23 to two major health infrastructure projects in Lakka and Jui, located in the Western Area Rural District.
The Engineering Directorate now leads post-award contract supervision, focusing on compliance with technical specifications, adherence to approved designs and bills of quantities, monitoring of timelines and contractor performance, and ensuring value for money in execution. The approach signals a move toward more results-driven oversight of public investments.
On April 22, a team led by Deputy Director of Engineering, Henry Minah, inspected construction of a facility for postgraduate colleges in administration and pedagogy in Lakka.
The project, launched in 2024 by the Government of Sierra Leone through the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, is supported under the Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) Programme and executed by Interlinks Investment Limited.
Once completed, the facility will host the Council for Postgraduate Colleges of Health Specialties, boosting the country’s capacity for specialized medical training. Inspectors assessed structural integrity, engineering compliance, and alignment with approved specifications. While progress was deemed satisfactory, NPPA emphasized strict adherence to quality standards and timelines.
On April 23, the NPPA team proceeded to Jui to inspect construction of the proposed Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences building. The project, also under the Ministry of Health and funded through the SRHR programme, is designed by Tropical Environment Design Associate and executed by Broad Engineering and Construction.
The facility is expected to enhance teaching, research, and training capacity at the College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, part of the University of Sierra Leone.
During the visit, inspectors evaluated material quality, structural soundness, contractor performance, and progress against timelines, while also engaging contractors and consultants to resolve operational challenges.
Speaking during the inspections, Engineer Minahstressed the importance of robust engineering oversight in protecting public investments.
“The Authority’s engineering oversight function is essential in ensuring that contractors deliver according to agreed standards. Projects of this nature must provide long-term value and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said.
He noted that continuous monitoring is critical in mitigating risks such as project delays, cost overruns, and substandard execution.
The establishment of the Engineering Directorate signals a broader transformation within NPPA, shifting from a process-focused role to one that ensures effective and sustainable delivery of public projects.
Through regular inspections, technical evaluations, and stakeholder engagement, the Authority aims to position itself as a proactive regulator committed to tangible results.
Upon completion, the Lakka and Jui projects are expected to strengthen Sierra Leone’s healthcare education system, improve the training of specialized medical professionals, and contribute to better national health outcomes.
The NPPA reaffirmed its commitment to continuous monitoring of infrastructure projects until completion and handover, ensuring maximum value for the people of Sierra Leone.
