A public procurement expert based in the United States has applauded President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s administration for launching Liberia’s Electronic Government Procurement (e-GP) System. Mr. Alfred Sellu, in a statement issued on Monday, February 10, 2025, described the initiative as a transformative shift in public procurement that reinforces transparency, efficiency, and accountability.
Mr. Sellu, who previously worked for the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA) before relocating to the United States, emphasized that this development marks a major step toward eliminating corruption in government procurement processes. He highlighted his role in shaping the LRA’s procurement system, noting that he was part of the institution’s formation team. Under the leadership of Madam Elfrieda Stewart Tamba, the first Commissioner General of the LRA, Sellu developed procurement policies, standard operating procedures, and compliance frameworks that aligned with the Public Procurement and Concessions Commission (PPCC) Act.
With extensive credentials, including being a Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO) and a Certified Federal Contract Manager (CFCM), Sellu has been a vocal advocate for modernization in public procurement. He holds certifications from the US-based National Institute of Governmental Purchasing (NIGP) and the National Contract Management Association (NCMA). Additionally, he earned a master’s degree from Wilmington University in the United States.
In his statement, Sellu emphasized that replacing the traditional manual procurement system with an online platform will streamline government contracting, reduce inefficiencies, and promote fair competition. He noted that in many cases, procurement officers face political pressure from higher-ups seeking to manipulate contracts. However, with the e-GP System providing real-time access to procurement data, public scrutiny will deter corrupt practices.
He outlined key benefits of the e-GP System, including increased transparency, efficiency, cost reduction, and fair competition. He explained that automation will minimize administrative delays, reduce paperwork, and prevent human errors. Additionally, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) will have greater opportunities to compete for government contracts by allowing online submission and tracking of bids. The integration of the system with financial platforms, he said, will also ensure fiscal discipline, compliance, and real-time budget monitoring.
Despite these advantages, Sellu acknowledged that every system has its challenges. He outlined several potential risks of implementing the e-GP System, such as limited digital infrastructure, cybersecurity threats, user resistance, and system limitations. He pointed out that inadequate internet access and electricity in some parts of Liberia may slow widespread adoption. Cybersecurity risks, including data breaches and hacking threats, could also compromise the integrity of the procurement system if not properly managed.
Another major concern he raised is user resistance and capacity gaps. Many procurement professionals and suppliers may struggle with transitioning from manual to digital processes due to limited ICT skills. Furthermore, stakeholders accustomed to traditional procurement methods may resist change, potentially hindering the system’s full implementation. He also noted that the initial rollout lacks critical features such as electronic contract signing and automated supplier performance evaluation.
Sellu recommended that the government take several key steps to ensure the successful implementation of the e-GP System. He urged authorities to prioritize infrastructure development by investing in stable electricity and internet access, which are critical for the system’s smooth operation. He also emphasized the need for extensive capacity-building programs to train procurement practitioners, public officials, suppliers, and small businesses on how to use the system effectively.
Sellu further advised the government to strengthen the legal framework to ensure that e-procurement practices are fully supported by law. He cited potential legal challenges such as disputes over late bid submissions due to technical failures, emphasizing that clear policies must be in place to address such issues. He also called for expanding system functionalities by incorporating features like e-signing of contracts, supplier tracking, and automated alerts to enhance efficiency.
Additionally, he stressed the importance of cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive procurement data. He recommended that the government implement strong firewalls, encryption protocols, and regular system audits to prevent data breaches and build public trust in the system. Without these protections, he warned, the integrity of the e-GP System could be compromised, undermining its intended purpose.
Sellu expressed confidence that the e-GP System could significantly transform Liberia’s procurement landscape with the right investments and strategic implementation. He noted that many countries have successfully implemented similar systems, leading to increased government savings, reduced corruption, and improved service delivery. He cited Ghana, Rwanda, and Kenya as African nations that have leveraged e-procurement to enhance governance.
He also emphasized that modernizing Liberia’s procurement system is essential for attracting international investors and boosting economic growth. He said investors are more likely to engage with a government that operates transparently and efficiently. By ensuring that contracts are awarded fairly and based on merit, the system could also foster the growth of local businesses and create more job opportunities for Liberians.
Sellu concluded by urging the government to provide the necessary resources and support to the professional team at the PPCC tasked with managing the e-GP System. He warned that insufficient training, system maintenance, and infrastructure development funding could hinder the system’s success. He emphasized that if the government does not fully support the initiative, it risks becoming another failed project that does not deliver its intended benefits.
