KPMG-GIPS report finds 86% of organizations face procurement fraud

The KPMG-Ghana Institute of Procurement and Supply (GIPS) 2026 Procurement Enhancement Survey Report has revealed that 86% of respondents acknowledge the occurrence of procurement fraud within their organisations. The report, which provides a critical look at the state of procurement practices in Ghana, identifies personal financial gain as the primary driver for such activities, with 62% of participants citing it as the leading motivation. While the figure remains high, it represents a slight decline from the 89% recorded in the previous year's assessment.

Data from the survey, which gathered insights from 505 procurement practitioners, also highlights a significant shift in the consequences of whistleblowing. According to the findings, 12% of respondents reported experiencing retaliation after flagging fraudulent activities, a notable improvement from the 26% who faced similar repercussions in 2023. This reduction suggests a strengthening of internal governance and a growing awareness of anti-fraud policies across various sectors, though the persistent nature of fraud indicates that risks remain substantial for many businesses.

To address these ongoing challenges, the report emphasizes the urgent need for organisations to conduct comprehensive fraud risk assessments and enhance their procurement controls. KPMG and GIPS recommend that businesses establish more robust, anonymous reporting channels to encourage employees to come forward without fear of victimisation. Additionally, the report calls for regular fraud awareness training and the implementation of better oversight mechanisms to bolster the overall integrity and transparency of the procurement process in Ghana.