Zoodlabs-SL, a technology and infrastructure company providing internet services through a wireless broadband network in Sierra Leone, has publicly apologized to Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL) for financial inconsistencies highlighted in the 2023 Auditor General’s Report.
During a Public Accounts Committee hearing on January 13, 2025, Mahmoud Idriss, Executive Director of Zoodlabs (SL) Ltd., formally addressed the issue. The apology was issued following a controversy involving a cheque that allegedly demonstrated Zoodlabs’ payment to the Government of Sierra Leone, which created confusion over the company’s financial obligations as outlined in the Auditor General’s Report.
The report indicated that Zoodlabs had failed to remit the agreed annual fee of US$1.44 million to the Government. The hearings revealed discrepancies, particularly concerning a cheque dated October 2024, which was outside the audit period of January to December 2023. This discrepancy raised questions about Zoodlabs’ adherence to its financial commitments.
Mahmoud Idriss acknowledged that the cheque dated December 24, 2024, did not reflect the company’s financial dealings during the 2023 audit period. He expressed regret for the misunderstanding and the potential impact on the audit process’s integrity and public trust in Zoodlabs’ financial compliance.
The apology was seen as a positive move toward improving relations with Government auditing bodies and ensuring stricter compliance with financial regulations. The ASSL emphasized the need for clear communication and adherence to audit timelines to maintain transparency and accountability in public financial management.
As the Audit Service continues its efforts to promote accountability within Government entities, future audits will aim to resolve any remaining discrepancies and contribute to Sierra Leone’s national development.
