The Procurement Director of the Millenium Development Authority (MiDA), Mr Frank Mante, has urged Ghanaians to take advantage of procurement opportunities that exist under the Ghana Power Compact.
Speaking at a breakfast meeting organised by the American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) – Ghana and MiDA on procurement opportunities under the Ghana Power Compact II of the Millenium Challenge Corporation (MCC), he urged them not to shy away but instead get acquainted with the processes to make their bids winnable.
“I suspect some feel they might not get the opportunity to even win so some do not even come at all. And even for those who take part, sometimes I feel a bit sad because some will usually submit their tenders a bit late and some will not complete the relevant forms and as a result, you have firms coming from outside taking some of the contracts.
“That notwithstanding, we have had a number of local firms winning a number of contracts. That is why we are having this programme to encourage a number of local firms to participate. We invite Ghanaian firms that are suitably qualified for most of our activities to come and take part,” he said.
He said although local participation under the Compact I was not encouraging, there was still a new window of opportunity under the Compact II and Ghanaians must, therefore, take advantage of the leeway that the local content provision provided for to bid for contracts.
Mr Mante reiterated the importance of strictly adhering to the procurement rules and processes as failure to comply would result in the disqualification of the bid.
“As always, we are looking for compliance with all of the requirements of the solicitation document,” he said.
He said MiDa procurement principles were fair, transparent, open and competitive to ensure the integrity of the entire process.
The Chief Executive Officer of MiDA, Mr Martin Eson-Benjamin, said the Compact made provision for private participation and it was, therefore, important that the locals positioned themselves to take advantage of the opportunity.
