The Minister of Finance, Karefa A. F. Kargbo, has assured the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Sierra Leone (ICASL) of continued Government support following discussions on annual funding, a proposed cooperation agreement and the Institute’s need for permanent office accommodation.
The assurances came during a courtesy visit by the ICASL Executive to the Minister’s office on George Street, Freetown, on Monday, October 5, 2026. The delegation congratulated him on his appointment and outlined several priorities aimed at strengthening the accounting profession and its contribution to public financial management.
Leading the delegation, ICASL President, Leslie Williams, described the appointment of a member of the Institute to oversee the country’s economic management as a source of pride for the profession. He congratulated Karefa A. F. Kargbo and expressed appreciation for the Ministry’s longstanding support.
Leslie Williams said the annual Government subvention had made a significant contribution to the Institute’s operations. He appealed for the timely completion and signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between ICASL and the Ministry of Finance to formalize their working relationship.
The ICASL President also briefed the Minister on efforts to review the legislation governing the Institute. He explained that the proposed review seeks to strengthen ICASL’s mandate and ensure that all Chartered Accountants practicing in Sierra Leone are appropriately incorporated into its membership.
Opportunities for local accounting professionals were another focus of the discussions. Leslie Williams called for greater participation by local audit firms in the auditing of donor-funded projects, saying such involvement would help build their capacity and broaden their professional experience.
He further requested Government assistance in securing permanent office space, stressing the importance of suitable accommodation for the Institute’s operations and services to its members.
Responding to the delegation, Karefa A. F. Kargbo welcomed the visit and acknowledged his close association with ICASL as a Fellow Chartered Accountant. He assured the Executive that the Government’s annual subvention would continue and pledge to follow up on the outstanding Memorandum of Understanding.
The Minister said he would engage Financial Secretary, Matthew Dingie and Accountant General Richard Williams, both members of ICASL, to advance the completion and signing of the agreement.
Addressing the request for permanent accommodation, Karefa A. F. Kargbo also assured the delegation of Government’s commitment to supporting the Institute’s efforts to secure a permanent structure that would provide a conducive working environment for its members.
