The Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL) has today, Tuesday 20th May, 2025. tabled five performance audit reports in Parliament.
These reports were done to assess the efficiency, effectiveness, economy, equity and environment of various government programs and agencies. This initiative highlights the country’s dedication to transparency and good governance.
The five performance audit reports cover critical sectors vital to Sierra Leone’s development and environmental sustainability. They include evaluation of the Youth Empowerment Programmes managed by the Ministry of Youth Affairs; Wetland Conservation efforts, Water Catchment Management by the National Water Resources Management Agency, Food Security initiatives in relation to climate change, and Disaster Risk Reduction activities conducted by the National Disaster Management Agency.
These performance audits serve as vital tools to ensure public resources are utilised optimally. Unlike regular financial audits, performance audits focus on the value-for-money aspect, scrutinising how well government initiatives achieve their intended outcomes with the available resources. The Lawmakers have expressed passion to take actions on these performance audit reports which focuses on service delivery and the impact on the lives of Sierra Leoneans, aligning public finance scrutiny with developmental outcomes. The audits are conducted in line with the International Standards of Supreme Audit Institutions and the guidelines set by the ASSL.
The Performance Audit Division of ASSL which was established in 2008 has played a pivotal role in strengthening accountability. Since its inception, the division has produced approximately 40 reports, providing valuable insights into the functioning of various government programs and promoting transparency in public resource management.
The recently tabled reports are expected to inform policy decisions and enhance the implementation of government projects. They also serve as a benchmark for continuous improvement, highlighting areas where efficiency can be increased, and resources better allocated.
As Sierra Leone advances into a new era of development, performance audit and information system audits are the future of our audit systems. These audits serve as essential tools for monitoring progress and safeguarding the country’s economic security. Stakeholders and citizens alike are encouraged to review the reports and participate in fostering good governance and sustainable development across Sierra Leone.
