Audit Service Sierra Leone

21/07/2026

Staff of the Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL) on Monday 20th July propelled the Auditor-General, Mr. Abdul Aziz, in a state of amazement with a special ceremony to celebrate his one year in office.

The event, held on the 12th Floor of the Freetown City Council Building, brought together management and staff to honour the Auditor-General’s leadership and achievements over the past year. The programme featured Christian and Muslim prayers, during which blessings were offered for God’s continued guidance, wisdom, good health and protection over the Auditor-General as he leads the institution with wisdom.

As a highlight of the celebration, staff presented Mr. Aziz with a commemorative plaque in recognition of his outstanding leadership, dedication and commitment to strengthening the Audit Service Sierra Leone.

Expressing his appreciation, the Auditor-General said the celebration came as a complete surprise, noting that he had not expected such a gesture from staff.
“I am truly surprised and deeply honoured by this celebration. I was not expecting it at all. The Audit Service Sierra Leone is indeed full of surprises, and I sincerely thank every member of staff for this thoughtful recognition,” he said.

The ceremony concluded with staff reaffirming their commitment to supporting the Auditor-General’s vision of strengthening accountability, promoting institutional excellence and enhancing the impact of public sector auditing in Sierra Leone.

It could be recalled that the Auditor-General was appointment and approved by Parliament as substantive holder of the position on 17th July 2025, after serving as Acting Auditor General for four years.

21/07/2026

The Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL) held a one-day Mid-Year Review Meeting on 10th July 2026 at the Country Lodge Hotel, Freetown, to assess performance during the first half of the year and plan for the successful delivery of its audit mandate for the remainder of 2026.

Addressing management and staff, Auditor-General Mr. Abdul Aziz commended staff for their dedication and urged them to remain focused on completing audit reports within statutory deadlines while planning effectively for future audits. He emphasised the importance of commitment, professionalism and collaboration, stressing that quality, integrity and teamwork are essential to achieving ASSL’s objectives.

The Auditor-General also highlighted the value of continuous staff development, quality assurance and the Performance Appraisal System as tools for improving individual and institutional performance.

The Training Manager Mr. Ibrahim Sorie Kamara presented an overview of ASSL’s performance from January to June 2026, outlining completed audits, ongoing assignments and outstanding work.

The meeting concluded with interactive planning sessions during which staff developed practical strategies to complete outstanding audits, strengthen collaboration across divisions and ensure the timely delivery of high-quality audit reports during the second half of the year.

08/07/2026

The Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL) has successfully concluded a two-day induction programme for 22 newly recruited staff, held on 7th and 8th July, 2026 at the Empower Africa Hall on the 10th Floor of the Freetown City Council Building.

The induction which brought together newly recruited Auditors, ICT Officers, one Information Systems Auditor and one Procurement Officer, was designed to equip them with the knowledge and skills required to effectively carry out the mandate of the ASSL.

An Admin Assistant and a driver who had worked for the Audit Service were among the newly recruited Auditors
Speaking during the opening session, the Deputy Auditor-General, Finance and Corporate Services

Mr. Mohamed Juldeh Barrie, congratulated the new staff on their successful recruitment, noting that their selection reflect the confidence the institution has placed in their potential to make meaningful contributions to public sector auditing in Sierra Leone.

He emphasised that every strong institution is built on competent and committed employees, adding that the induction programme marks the first step in preparing the new employees to uphold the values, standards and professionalism expected of public sector auditors.
“The induction provides an opportunity for you to become familiar with the mandate of the Audit Service Sierra Leone, our institutional culture, professional responsibilities and the high ethical standards that guide our work,” he said.

Mr. Barrie further encouraged the participants to take full advantage of the training, stressing that the knowledge and experience gained during the programme would serve as a solid foundation for their professional growth and effectiveness within the institution.

During the course of the programme, the Deputy Auditor-General, Specialised Audits, Mr. Aiah Gbondo-Tugbawa, delivered a presentation on the Audit Service Sierra Leone’s Mission, Vision, Core Values, Strategic Plan and organisational structure. He highlighted how each staff member plays a vital role in supporting the institution’s mission of promoting accountability, transparency and good governance through independent auditing.

Heads of the various divisions also made presentations on the functions and responsibilities of their respective departments, providing the new staff with a comprehensive understanding of the institution’s operations and how the different divisions work together to deliver on the ASSL’s constitutional mandate.

The induction forms part of the ASSL’s commitment to developing a competent, ethical and high-performing workforce capable of delivering quality audits that enhance accountability and improve public financial management in Sierra Leone.

24/06/2026

The Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL) and the Sierra Leone Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (SLEITI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability, credibility, and accuracy in reporting within Sierra Leone’s extractive sector. SLEITI is the Sierra Leone Chapter of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), which is the global framework for extractive industries accountability.

The MoU was signed on Tuesday, 23rd June 2026, at the Conference Room of the ASSL in Freetown.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Auditor-General, Mr. Abdul Aziz said the agreement reflects the shared commitment of both institutions to promoting accountability, transparency, and good governance in the management of Sierra Leone’s natural resources.
He noted that under the agreement, ASSL and SLEITI will collaborate in the production of Sierra Leone’s Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) reports in line with international EITI standards.

“The Audit Service Sierra Leone is mandated to promote accountability and transparency in the management of public funds, while SLEITI is responsible for strengthening transparency, accountability, and governance in the extractive industries sector. We see ourselves as partners working towards a common goal, which is why this MoU is important,” Mr. Aziz stated.

The Auditor-General described the agreement as a significant milestone that will improve existing systems and enhance the credibility of EITI reporting in Sierra Leone. He explained that prior to the signing of the MoU, the ASSL was responsible for certifying reporting templates submitted by mining companies, MDAs and chiefdom authorities. However, under the new arrangement, the ASSL will serve as the Independent Administrator responsible for preparing EITI reports, conducting scoping exercises, analysing data, identifying gaps, and making recommendations to address identified challenges.
“With this new role, the ASSL can no longer certify the same templates it will later assess and report on. As the saying goes, you cannot be both the referee and the player at the same time,” he remarked.
Mr. Aziz further highlighted the important role played by Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in promoting transparency and accountability within the extractive sector and commended their continued contributions to the EITI process.

In his remarks, the National Coordinator of SLEITI, Mr. Mohamed Baimba Koroma, described the agreement as a landmark partnership that underscores the shared commitment of both institutions to leveraging their expertise and resources in support of national development and good governance.
He noted that, as an EITI-implementing country, Sierra Leone publishes EITI reports containing disclosures on the legal and institutional framework governing the extractive sector, contracts and licences, production and exports, revenue collection and allocation, the sector’s contribution to the economy, and environmental, social, and governance issues.
Mr. Koroma stated that, in accordance with Requirement 4.8 of the EITI Standard, SLEITI is pleased to partner with ASSL in the production of Sierra Leone’s 2024–2025 EITI Report.
“SLEITI considers ASSL to be technically competent, credible, trustworthy, and free from any conflict of interest regarding the collection and treatment of sensitive information,” he said.
He expressed appreciation to the leadership and staff of the ASSL for their unwavering commitment to transparency, integrity, and accountability.
Also speaking at the ceremony, the Deputy Auditor-General, Mr. Morie Lansana commended SLEITI for its significant contribution to strengthening governance in Sierra Leone’s extractive industries sector. He noted that the strong reputation and professional work of the ASSL had created opportunities for deeper collaboration between the two institutions.
“The confidence reposed in the ASSL by the people of this country continues to motivate us to remain committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and effective oversight within the extractive industries sector,” Mr. Lansana stated.
The signing of the MoU marks a new chapter in the partnership between ASSL and SLEITI, and is expected to further enhance transparency, accountability, and public trust in the management of Sierra Leone’s extractive resources.

22/06/2026

The Management and Staff of the Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL), in collaboration with the Audit Service Muslim Jamaat, on Friday, 19th June 2026, held a special welcome ceremony in honour of the Board Secretary, Haja Fatmata Binta Bah, following her successful pilgrimage to the Holy City of Mecca in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The ceremony, held at the ASSL office brought together management, staff, and members of the Muslim Jamaat to celebrate Haja Fatmata Binta Bah’s return from fulfilling one of the most important religious obligations in Islam.

Speaking at the event, the Deputy Auditor General, Mr. Morie Lansana, expressed delight in welcoming Haja Fatmata Binta Bah back to the institution after completing her pilgrimage. He noted that Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and represents a significant spiritual milestone for every Muslim who can undertake the journey.

Mr. Lansana stated that Haja Fatmata Bah’s pilgrimage was not surprising, considering her longstanding commitment and contributions to the Audit Service Muslim Jamaat and the nation at large. He commended her exemplary character, dedication, and service, adding that her successful completion of Hajj further strengthens her role as a model of faith and integrity.

“Haja Fatmata Binta Bah is now positioned to be a role model not only within the Islamic community but also to society as a whole,” he remarked.

In her response, Haja Fatmata Binta Bah expressed profound gratitude to the Auditor General, Management, Staff of ASSL, and members of the Audit Service Muslim Jamaat for the warm and thoughtful welcome accorded her.

She described the gesture as a pleasant surprise and thanked everyone for their prayers and support throughout her journey. Reflecting on her spiritual experience, Haja Fatmata Bah stated that performing the pilgrimage to Mecca was one of the best decisions she had ever made in her life.

She encouraged fellow Muslims to strive towards fulfilling the sacred obligation when the opportunity arises, noting that the pilgrimage had strengthened her faith and deepened her commitment to serving God and humanity.

The ceremony concluded with prayers, goodwill messages, and expressions of appreciation for Haja Fatmata Binta Bah’s dedication and service to the institution and the Muslim community.

03/06/2026

Audit Service Concludes Nationwide Citizens’ Engagement

The Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL) has successfully concluded a nationwide citizens’ engagement exercise across 15 districts of the country, including the hard-to-reach districts of Bonthe Island and Falaba, as part of its efforts to strengthen accountability and improve service delivery.

The sessions which were held in the various districts from 7th to 29th May 2026, brought together traditional leaders, civil society organisations, media representatives, women, youths, traders, students, persons with disabilities and other stakeholders to contribute to the audit of the 2025 financial year.

Participants called for stronger implementation of audit recommendations by Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), particularly local councils, stressing that effective follow-up on audit findings would improve service delivery and address development challenges. Key concerns raised included poor own source revenue mobilisation, poor waste management, non functional school buses and gabbage trucks, late distribution of seeds and fertilizers, shortages of drugs and medical equipment, and the limited operational capacity of fire force services across many districts.

Stakeholders also advocated for closer collaboration between civil society groups and the ASSL in monitoring the implementation of audit recommendations and identifying priority areas for future audits.

Speaking during the engagements, Senior Communication Officer Martin Sandy reaffirmed ASSL’s commitment to inclusive auditing and citizen participation, noting that public feedback plays a critical role in promoting transparency, accountability and the effective management of public resources.

The nationwide exercise forms part of ASSL’s broader strategy to bring citizens closer to the audit process and ensure that their concerns help shape audits and improve governance across Sierra Leone.

23/05/2026

The Auditor-General of Sierra Leone, Mr Abdul Aziz, has been elected Vice Chairperson of the Governing Board of the African Organiation of English-speaking Supreme Audit Institutions (AFROSAI-E) during the organisation’s 22nd Governing Board Meeting held in Liberia on Tuesday, 19th May 2026.

Mr Aziz was elected alongside the current Chairperson of AFROSAI-E, Madam Nancy Gathungu, Auditor-General of Kenya, who was re-elected to continue serving as Chairperson of the regional body.

Their election reflects the confidence reposed in their leadership and commitment to strengthening accountability, transparency, and public sector auditing across Africa.

The election of Sierra Leone’s Auditor-General to such a high-ranking position within AFROSAI-E is being viewed as a major achievement for the country’s public financial management and governance sector. It further enhances Sierra Leone’s growing influence in regional and international accountability institutions.

Since assuming office as Auditor-General, Mr Abdul Aziz has played a significant role in strengthening the credibility and visibility of the Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL). Under his leadership, the institution has expanded performance and compliance audits, increased citizen engagement initiatives, enhanced collaboration with development partners, and promoted reforms aimed at improving transparency and service delivery within public institutions.
His tenure has also witnessed greater international recognition for Sierra Leone’s audit practices, with the ASSL receiving commendations from development partners and regional institutions for its evolving audit methodologies and focus on accountability outcomes.

Mr Aziz’s election as Vice Chairperson of AFROSAI-E is expected to bring immense benefits to Sierra Leone. The position provides the country with a stronger voice in shaping regional audit policies, governance reforms, and professional standards for Supreme Audit Institutions across Africa. It is also expected to create opportunities for increased technical cooperation, capacity building, knowledge sharing, and institutional partnerships that will further strengthen Sierra Leone’s accountability framework.

Mr Aziz has recently been appointed to serve on several international governance and professional bodies, including his appointment as a member of the African Professionalisation Initiative Governing Board and as a Board member of the International Consortium on Governmental Financial Management which is a global body for PFM professionals. These appointments, coupled with his latest election, underscore the growing international recognition of his expertise and leadership in the field of public sector auditing and financial governance.

05/05/2026

📢 Public Service Notice from Audit Service Sierra Leone!!!
Several public entities have failed to submit their FY2025 financial statements as required by law. #

27/04/2026

25/04/2026

The Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL) convened a high-level breakfast meeting with Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to enhance collaboration and improve the implementation of audit recommendations.

The meeting, focused on the operational framework of the recently established Follow-Up Unit of the ASSL, expectations from MDAs, and strategies to address outstanding audit issues.

Speaking at the engagement, the Auditor-General, Mr. Abdul Aziz, underscored the importance of collaboration between ASSL and the MDAs, particularly in the implementation of audit recommendations. He explained that the Follow-Up Unit is mandated to systematically track and monitor how audit findings are addressed across government institutions.

Mr. Aziz emphasized that auditing is an evidence-based exercise that is not driven by speculation or hearsay. Noting that the work of ASSL continues to gain recognition from citizens and development partners alike. He further highlighted the shift in the institution’s audit approach, stating that now goes beyond document reviews. “Auditors no longer rely solely on documents provided to them. They conduct site visits to verify the authenticity of projects and activities reported,” he said.

The Auditor-General added that this enhanced methodology has increased confidence among development partners, with many now requesting the ASSL to audit their projects.

The Deputy Auditor-General Mr. Morie Lansana described the establishment of the Follow-Up Unit as a significant step towards strengthening accountability and improving public financial management. He noted that the initiative reflects ASSL’s transition from routine reporting to proactive engagement with public institutions.

Mr. Lansana further disclosed that the Auditor-General will begin enforcing his legal powers to disallow and surcharge public officials involved in the misuse of public funds. He clarified that these powers are provided for under the Audit Service Act 2014 (as amended) and the Public Financial Management Act 2016, and that the Audit Service Regulations have already been developed to guide their implementation.

The interactive session provided a platform for Heads of MDAs to seek clarification on audit processes and reinforce coordination with ASSL. Participants raised concerns about challenges affecting the implementation of audit recommendations, particularly issues related to records management.

They, however, commended the ASSL for the initiative, describing the Follow-Up Unit and the engagement as timely and necessary. The MDA Heads also pledged to strengthen records management systems, address recurring audit findings and improve compliance going forward.