By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In fulfillment of its statutory mandate, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) of Sierra Leone presented its 2023 Annual Report to His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio on Friday, November 15, 2024, at State House. The submission adheres to Section 19(1) of the Anti-Corruption Act of 2008, which requires the ACC to report its yearly activities to the President.
Leading the presentation, ACC Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala, Esq., provided an overview of the report, detailing key findings and accomplishments in areas such as asset declaration, intelligence operations, investigations, prosecutions, prevention strategies and procurement oversight.
Deputy Commissioner, Augustine Foday Ngobie, underscored the Commission’s commitment to combating corruption, emphasizing that the report reflects significant achievements over the past year. One notable milestone highlighted was the Commission’s relocation to its new headquarters, The Integrity House, built and equipped with support from President Bio’s administration.
Augustine Foday Ngobie also elaborated on the extensive work carried out by ACC’s regional offices in Bo, Port Loko, Kenema, Makeni and Kono. These offices undertook public sensitization campaigns, preventive measures and enforcement actions. He stressed that while corruption remains a challenge, the report showcases tangible progress, reinforcing the belief that “better is possible” for Sierra Leone.
Responding to the report, President Julius Maada Bio commended the ACC, its leadership and staff for their steadfast efforts in curbing corruption. Reflecting on the state of corruption six years ago, he recalled that Sierra Leone had been widely regarded as one of the most corrupt countries in the world. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reversing this narrative, a promise he made during his presidential campaign.
“Today, even our harshest critics acknowledge the substantial progress we have made in the fight against corruption,” President Bio remarked. He credited the Commission’s achievements with restoring Sierra Leone’s credibility on the international stage and creating an environment conducive to business and investment.
President Bio also expressed appreciation to development partners, including the World Bank and UNICEF, for their support in strengthening the country’s anti-corruption framework.
He emphasized that the annual presentation of the ACC report exemplifies his administration’s transparency and resolve in fighting corruption. “This fight is vital to the future of our nation. Corruption is an existential threat that we must confront and defeat. I urge every Sierra Leonean to join this battle; it is one we must win,” he asserted.
The President concluded by reaffirming his Government’s dedication to sustaining anti-corruption measures and ensuring a transparent and accountable governance system. The 2023 ACC Annual Report stands as a testament to the strides made in advancing integrity and accountability in Sierra Leone.
