The Audit Service Sierra Leone held a fruitful deliberation with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to discuss the 2023 Auditor General’s Annual Report and its impact on the lives of the citizens. The session, which took place on the 12th floor of the Freetown City Council Building, aimed to foster collaboration between the audit institution and stakeholders committed to enhancing transparency and accountability in governance.
The Deputy Auditor General, Aiah Gbondo Tugbawa expressed gratitude for the presence of the CSOs and highlighted the significance of their role in the audit process, stating that the engagement with CSOs enhances the credibility and effectiveness of audit findings. He reiterated the importance of stakeholder involvement in ensuring that audit recommendations are not only acknowledged but also acted upon, stating: “Together, we can make significant strides towards improved governance and accountability in our institutions”.
The Acting Auditor General, Abdul Aziz, delivered an impactful statement emphasising the importance of the partnership between the Auditor General’s Office and CSOs. He underscored that the 2023 Audit Report is not just a reflection of financial accountability but a tool for promoting good governance and service delivery. He stressed that by working together, the ASSL and CSOs can ensure that the audit findings are translated into actionable changes that benefit the citizen.
Mr. Morie Lansana, the Acting Deputy Auditor General, provided an overview of the audit process, outlining the methodologies and frameworks employed in the 2023 audit. He elaborated on key findings, which include statutory deductions not paid, asset and stores management, expenditure management, salary and payroll management; procurement, contract and revenue management. “Understanding our audit process is crucial for you as stakeholders; it empowers you to hold institutions accountable and advocate for change,” he noted.
Civil society representatives took the opportunity to seek clarifications on various aspects of the audit findings, emphasising their commitment to using this information to inform their advocacy efforts. This interaction fostered a spirited dialogue, highlighting the mutual interest in driving accountability and transparency.
In summary, the engagement between the Auditor General’s Office and the Civil Society showcased a proactive approach to enhancing public sector accountability, with both parties recognising the value of partnership in achieving shared goals for a more transparent governance framework.
