The Georgian government says its Efficiency Department, created in 2025, helped save GEL 67.4 million in budget spending last year. According to the Government Administration’s press service, the department reviewed state programs and procurements worth GEL 114.9 million, generating significant savings through its involvement. It also identified cases with possible criminal elements and forwarded them to investigative bodies.
The department was established at the initiative of Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze and has been led by Guram Dumbadze since June 2024. However, the press release does not specify which agencies saved money, which programs were affected, or the extent of cooperation from spending ministries.
The administration says most savings came from improved oversight of public procurement. The department monitors planned and ongoing tenders, analyzes potential problems, and issues recommendations to prevent risks. It also supervises procuring entities covered by government regulations, aiming to increase competition and transparency in public purchasing.
Government officials say several questionable projects were flagged and sent to law enforcement, where investigations are ongoing. The department also shared risk assessments with relevant agencies and provided instructions for preventing negative outcomes. Despite this active oversight role, a May 2025 government decree formally limits the department’s mandate mainly to providing consultative services.
