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The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Sierra Leone Immigration Department (SLID) aimed at strengthening preventive anti-corruption measures within the country’s immigration system.
The agreement, signed at the ACC Conference Room at Integrity House, Tower Hill in Freetown, underscores a renewed commitment by both institutions to promote transparency, accountability, and integrity in public service delivery.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, ACC Deputy Commissioner Augustine Foday Ngobie, emphasized that while the Commission maintains its mandate to investigate and prosecute corruption, its current strategic direction prioritizes prevention across public institutions.
He welcomed the SLID delegation and highlighted the critical role of immigration officers as frontline representatives of Sierra Leone at border entry and exit points. He noted that such responsibility demands the highest standards of discipline, integrity, and professionalism.
Mr Ngobie further stressed that as the Immigration Department continues to undergo reforms, sustaining a positive institutional image remains essential. He assured SLID of the Commission’s continued support in establishing and implementing strong governance and integrity systems for the benefit of citizens.
Chief Immigration Officer, Moses Tiffa Baio Esq., acknowledged past public concerns linking the Department to corruption and said ongoing reforms are focused on restoring public trust and confidence.
He noted that the Department’s decentralisation process, though necessary, could heighten exposure to corruption risks if not properly managed.
“As we expand our operations to the regions, the risk of corruption may increase. This is why collaboration with the Anti-Corruption Commission is critical at this time,” Dr Baio stated.
He added that the MoU will strengthen staff capacity development and aligns with Pillar Two of SLID’s Transformation Plan (2026–2030), which emphasizes transparency and integrity.
Also addressing the ceremony, ACC Coordinator of Operations, Patrick Sandi, described the agreement as a significant milestone in mainstreaming anti-corruption practices across key governance institutions.
He noted that formalizing institutional collaboration enhances transparency, accountability, and integrity systems within the public service. Mr. Sandi also reminded SLID officials of the need to comply with the Commission’s online asset declaration requirements for public officers.
The MoU citation, read by SLID representative Gladys M. Gbondo, outlined five key components of the partnership: joint development of integrity tools; establishment of reporting and protection mechanisms; enhancement of transparency and public communication; implementation of preventive systems and integrity audits; and institutional governance reforms.
The partnership marks a strategic step toward strengthening institutional resilience against corruption and improving public confidence in Sierra Leone’s immigration system.
