NPPA monitors energy projects as UDB faces proposed reforms

The National Public Procurement Authority (NPPA) has increased monitoring of government-funded energy projects in Sierra Leone to ensure value for money and proper implementation. During inspections in Kabala, Kambia, and Bauya Sognini, officials assessed the physical condition and functionality of infrastructure. In Kabala, an 11kV distribution network project involving 17 transformers is approximately 70 percent complete, though implementation has reportedly stalled due to payment issues. Additionally, officials noted that 10 transformer locations had been vandalized, with electrical cables stolen.

In Uganda, a National Planning Authority (NPA) impact assessment report has recommended reforms for the Uganda Development Bank (UDB). Directed by the Finance Ministry, the report suggests institutionalizing independent performance reviews every three years. These mandatory evaluations aim to ensure the bank’s lending, staff development, and capacity-building programs align with Uganda’s National Development Plan 4 and Vision 2040. Key performance indicators for these reviews will include non-performing loan ratios and debt recovery rates.