By Martin Sandy
The Acting Auditor General of Sierra Leone, Abdul Aziz and team bade farewell to the European Union Delegation, Ambassador, Manuel Muller expressing gratitude for the extensive support provided to the Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL) over the years. The meeting took place at the office of the European Union in Freetown on Monday 19th August, 2024.The meeting served as a reflection on the accomplishments achieved through the partnership between the ASSL and the EU and highlighted the tremendous growth and development that have been realized in the realm of public auditing in Sierra Leone.
The Acting Auditor General expressed profound appreciation for the EU’s support in various facets of capacity building within the ASSL. He emphasized that the ASSL’s mandate, enshrined in the constitution, has been robustly bolstered by the EU’s assistance, allowing the institution to innovate and expand its auditing capabilities. The partnership has empowered the ASSL to engage in new audit areas, including environmental audits, a critical emerging audit field in the context of climate change and sustainable development. This expansion focus did not only reinforce accountability but also ensures that public resources are managed in a manner that promotes environmental stewardship.
The Acting Auditor General expressed optimism for the future and underscored the importance of ongoing support from the EU, which has been instrumental in building the capacity of the ASSL as it strives to meet the ever-evolving demands of public auditing in a complex socio-economic landscape.
In response, the EU Ambassador acknowledged the hard work and dedication demonstrated by the ASSL. He reiterated his recognition of the importance of the institution, highlighting that a robust auditing body is crucial for the effective functioning of public administration. The Ambassador commended the ASSL for making judicious use of the support provided by the EU, emphasising that the achievements observed are a testament to the commitment of both the ASSL and its partners.
The Ambassador went on to assure the Acting Auditor General that the EU remains deeply committed to supporting the Government of Sierra Leone in its future endeavors. He assured that the partnership between the ASSL and the EU Delegation in Sierra Leone would continue, with the EU prioritizing the enhancement of the institution’s capabilities and the improvement of standards in public auditing. The collaborative efforts between the EU and ASSL have laid a strong foundation for ongoing engagement, which is vital for driving sustainable development in Sierra Leone.
Of note, both the Acting Auditor General and the EU Ambassador wished each other well, expressing hopes for continued collaboration. Their shared vision for a transparent, accountable, and effective public auditing process remains a focal point for both parties, promising a future where the ASSL can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the governance landscape of the nation.