By Mamajah Jalloh
In the recent fiscal budget presentation, the Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL) requested a budget allocation of Le 17.15 million for the financial year 2025. This request, made during a government budget hearing at the Ministry of Finance Conference Hall on George Street, Freetown, aims to support the agency’s operational and developmental needs for the coming year.
During the presentation, the ASSL outlined its mission to independently ensure value for money from public funds. They emphasized their commitment to achieving this goal through collaboration with external stakeholders and maintaining a highly competent, motivated workforce of integrity.
The Audit Service also highlighted recent developments, including the completion of a new office building designed to provide a conducive working environment for its staff. The agency has reported positive interactions with Parliament regarding its daily activities and aims to continue this trend.
“ASSL’s goal is to attract and retain high-quality staff in line with the country’s staff retention policy and to provide training both locally and abroad,” stated an ASSL representative.
The agency’s objectives are aligned with the mid-term national development plan, focusing on governance, accountability, and specialized audits. ASSL also aims to improve access to audit information through the establishment of a well-functioning IS Audit unit, which is expected to enhance revenue generation among ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). The move towards a more digitalized audit system is a key component of their strategy.
In addition to these goals, ASSL has supported non-state actors in tracking and following audit reports and engaging the public. The agency reported achieving an 85% audit coverage of MDAs in 2023, with plans to increase this coverage.
Despite a 2023 budget allocation of Le 12.5 million, only Le 8.57 million was received by August 23, 2023, which has impacted ASSL’s operations. The proposed budget ceiling for 2025 is set at Le 17.15 million, reflecting the agency’s needs to enhance its auditing capabilities and support its strategic objectives.
