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Journal of Public Administration (JOPA)

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ISSN : 2
Analysis of overpricing of PPE acquired by government during COVID-19 : causes and policy suggestions

Author: Sipho K. Mokoena

Affiliation: University of Limpopo

Source: Journal of Public Administration, 2023-04-19 15:23:15

Accreditation: Department of Higher Education and Training(DHET)



Abstract: Analysis of overpricing of PPE acquired by government during COVID-19 : causes and policy suggestions

This article presents an analysis of overpricing of PPE acquired by government during the COVID-19 pandemic. This analysis is of high importance given that the pandemic is still active with sporadic resurgences, hence there is dire need for corrective actions. The methodological approach is a mix of qualitative analysis of causes of overpricing combined with a brief quantitative examination of the actual extent of PPE price differential from the official National Treasury prices. Data was gathered from the Auditor General of South Africa. The price differentials were analysed using the t-test of difference and percentage analysis. Results show that the actual price of PPE were significantly different from the National Treasury's price. Overall, unit prices of acquired PPE were heavily exceeded by over 186%, which resulted in a significant loss of government funds. Qualitative causative analysis indicates, among others, the flouti