Factors Affecting the Implementation of Electronic Procurement in Government Institutions in Sierra Leone

This paper examines the issues that affect the implementation of electronic procurement (e-procurement) in government institutions in Sierra Leone, specifically institutional readiness, perceived benefits, and barriers. The survey data used in the study were based on structured questionnaires to the procurement officers using descriptive and inferential statistics, such as chi-square tests, correlation analysis, and ANOVA, to compare patterns within various institutions and experience levels. The results show that the knowledge about e-procurement is not only popular but also not very practical. The respondents had a significant appreciation of the possible benefits, especially in enhancing transparency, diminishing corruption, enhancing efficiency, and increasing opportunities for SMEs. However, there is a lack of ICT infrastructure, a lack of skills related to ICT among the staff, high costs, and institutional resistance due to cultural governance. The ANOVA and post-hoc tests revealed that there were no significant differences in perceived benefits between the institutions or between the years of experience, indicating that they share perceptions of opportunities and challenges. The research finds that technological solutions are not enough to ensure successful adoption. In addition to investment in ICT infrastructure, the modernisation of procurement laws, long-term training and capacity building, and political determination should also be ensured. Comparative experiences in other African states support the necessity of adopting a holistic, governance-based policy to the extent that e-procurement will provide meaningful reform in Sierra Leone. The findings add to the knowledge of e-procurement implementation in developing countries and should benefit policymakers, practitioners, and development partners. Future studies should focus on the lived experiences of countries in the region that have implemented e-procurement.