The Director General of the Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Authority (PPDA), Dr. Edington Chilapondwa, has reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to fighting fraud and corruption in Malawi’s public procurement system. 

Speaking during a public lecture at the Catholic University of Malawi in Nguludi on Thursday, Dr. Chilapondwa said the new Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act No. 7 of 2025 introduces robust mechanisms to enhance transparency, accountability, and value for money in the management of public resources.

He explained that the new Act replaces the 2017 law to address emerging challenges and loopholes that had exposed the public procurement system to abuse. Among the major reforms, the Act introduces the compulsory declaration of beneficial ownership to ensure that companies bidding for government contracts are transparent about their true owners — a key step toward curbing bid rigging and collusion.

“This provision will help to prevent state capture through hidden ownership and ensure fair competition,” Dr. Chilapondwa emphasized.

The PPDA has also strengthened its oversight powers under the new law, including enhanced authority to carry out procurement audits, inspections, and investigations, as well as impose penalties and sanctions where necessary. 

According to Dr. Chilapondwa, these powers are critical to safeguarding public funds from misuse and promoting integrity among public officers and contractors involved in the procurement process.

As part of its modernization efforts, the PPDA has rolled out the Malawi National Electronic Procurement System (MANePS), a digital platform designed to automate and standardize procurement processes across government institutions. 

The system enhances efficiency, reduces opportunities for malpractice, and ensures open access to procurement information. To date, 27 public institutions have published their annual procurement plans on the MANePS portal, with over 500 suppliers already registered.

Dr. Chilapondwa highlighted that MANePS not only promotes transparency but also supports the participation of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by lowering entry barriers and providing access to a wider market. “Digitalization is our strongest weapon against corruption because it minimizes human interference and enhances traceability in every stage of procurement,” he noted.

In conclusion, the Director General urged all stakeholders—including procuring entities, suppliers, civil society, and citizens—to actively support the implementation of the new PPDA Act and MANePS. 

He said the success of the reforms depends on collective responsibility and vigilance to ensure that public procurement truly serves the interests of Malawians. “Together, we can build a transparent and accountable system that delivers value for every kwacha spent,” he said.