There are hopes for improved national transparency and accountability in public infrastructure projects in the country as authorities are banking expectations on a platform called Information Platform for Public Infrastructure in Malawi (IPPI).
The platform has been developed to increase citizen engagement in the public construction sector and to promote transparency and accountability of public resources.
Further, allows for the publication of public infrastructure projects and contract information from the tender level to completion of the project.
Speaking to MIJ Online, Joe Chin’gani Chairperson of Multi Stakeholder Group MSG said through the platform, people will have to see value for money in the public sector.
‘’The IPPI fits well with the access to information law as well as the public procurement and disposal of assets PPDA, as it will help in uploading as much information and data as possible.’’ Said Ching’ani.
Public actors such as Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), the media, different interested stakeholders as well as the public have access to this data through the IPPI platform. They are also able to post feedback such as questions regarding the progress of such public-funded projects for the duty bearers to provide feedback.
Duty bearers within project implementation entities have the opportunity and responsibility to respond to the comments and queries raised by the public through the IPPI system.