Over 100 state institutions risk sanctions for failing to sign mandatory performance contracts, as the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) intensifies efforts to strengthen transparency and accountability within Ghana’s public sector.
At a high-level breakfast meeting held in Accra, the Director-General of SIGA, Professor Michael Kpessa-Whyte, issued a strong call to action, urging State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), Other State Entities (OSEs), and Joint Venture Companies (JVCs) to comply with their legal obligations under the SIGA Act, 2019 (Act 990) and the Public Financial Management Regulations, 2019 (L.I. 2378).
“The signing of performance contracts is not optional; it is a critical legal and strategic requirement,” Prof. Kpessa-Whyte stated.
He noted that while there has been steady progress—70 contracts signed in 2024, up from 69 in 2023 and 47 in 2020—compliance remains a major concern. Out of 175 institutions listed in the Cabinet-approved Register of Specified Entities, more than 100 have yet to sign.
“This growing compliance gap is not a minor oversight; it is a fundamental challenge that weakens transparency, elevates fiscal risk, and impedes our ability to ensure public value,” he added. “We have outlined robust oversight mechanisms, including quarterly reviews, mid-year field visits, and annual performance assessments. Transparent reward and sanction systems will also be enforced to drive results and ensure accountability for dividends and public funds.”
While SIGA acknowledged operational difficulties such as structural changes and limited institutional capacity, it stressed that support is available in the form of technical assistance and policy guidance. However, non-compliance will no longer be tolerated.
“President John Mahama has consistently emphasized that there will be serious consequences for those who display weak commitment to signing performance contracts. Drastic actions will be taken against any head of a Specified Entity who falters in this commitment,” Prof. Kpessa-Whyte warned.
In her welcome address, Millicent Aguwine Atuguba, General Manager of Operations at SIGA, highlighted the government’s strong emphasis on effective oversight and governance of specific entities.
“Performance contracts are more than just documents. They are a pledge to deliver better services, ensure financial prudence, and uplift communities,” she stated, calling on all specified entities to act decisively.
Adding to the discussion, presidential advisor on the economy, and former Finance Minister, Mr. Seth Terkper, urged public institutions—including SOEs and government agencies—to align their strategic and performance plans with the framework of the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC).
“Without planning frameworks informed by national priorities, performance evaluation and budget alignment will remain ineffective,” he cautioned during a media interaction after his presentation.
With this renewed push for compliance, SIGA has reaffirmed its commitment to building a culture of excellence, transparency, and accountability in Ghana’s public sector.
Story by: Osman Issah Abadoo
