By Kadiatu A Turay
In a bold move to strengthen the fight against corruption, Sierra Leone’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Public Accountability Consortium (PAC). The collaboration aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and good governance across the country.
The landmark agreement was signed during a ceremony on December 11, 2024, at the ACC headquarters in Freetown.
The ACC and PAC have joined forces to launch a series of initiatives targeting corruption at all levels of governance. These efforts will include public awareness campaigns, investigative support, and policy recommendations to prevent the misuse of public resources.
“This partnership represents a new chapter in our fight against corruption,” said ACC Commissioner Francis Ben Kaifala. “Together with PAC, we aim to close gaps that enable corrupt practices and promote integrity in public service.”
The partnership was formalized on December 11, 2024, with activities planned nationwide. Priority areas include ministries, local councils, and public institutions, where cases of financial mismanagement have been most prevalent.
The partnership brings together the expertise of the ACC, Sierra Leone’s leading anti corruption agency, and PAC, a coalition of civil society organizations dedicated to promoting accountability.
PAC Coordinator Aminata Sesay highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating, “Corruption affects everyone, and addressing it requires collective action. By working with the ACC, we can amplify our impact and bring meaningful change.
The collaboration comes in response to growing concerns about corruption’s impact on development. The ACC’s latest report revealed a 25% increase in reported corruption cases over the past year, underscoring the need for innovative strategies.
The partnership will focus on capacity building, digital tools for tracking public funds, and grassroots engagement. “We believe technology and community involvement are key to rooting out corruption,” added Sesay.
The ACC and PAC have outlined a roadmap that includes workshops for public officials, the launch of an anti-corruption hotline, and the rollout of an online accountability platform.
Commissioner Kaifala stressed the need for public support: “We can only succeed if citizens actively participate. Report corruption when you see it. Hold leaders accountable.”
Citizens and stakeholders have welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that it will lead to tangible results.
“This partnership is a step in the right direction,” said Mohamed Bangura, a teacher in Makeni. “We need strong systems to ensure public funds are used for their intended purpose.”
Despite the optimism, experts warn of potential challenges, including resistance from entrenched networks of corruption. However, both the ACC and PAC remain undeterred, pledging to tackle obstacles head on.
“Corruption fights back, but so will we,” said Kaifala. “With this partnership, we are stronger and more prepared than ever.”
As Sierra Leone continues its journey toward accountability and good governance, the collaboration between the ACC and PAC offers a renewed sense of hope in the battle against corruption.
