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The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has issued a stern reminder to public officials regarding the implementation of donor-funded projects, urging strict adherence to established procedures and rules.
This announcement follows revelations that some Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have failed to appropriately manage these projects, resulting in financial losses for the Government of Sierra Leone due to necessary refund payments.
In a press release, the ACC highlighted that improper implementation of donor projects has led to the government incurring significant costs where projects did not meet the expected standards set forth by donors.
The Commission emphasized that public officials are obligated to follow specific measures to avoid serious repercussions, including personal liability for any financial losses incurred.
Key measures outlined by the ACC include:
Ineligible Expenditures: Payments made after a project’s closing date are deemed ineligible unless expressly extended by the donor.
Prior Approval Requirement: Any expenses incurred after the project closing date must receive explicit approval from the funding agencies and authorized project signatories.
Financial Accountability: Additional disbursements or advances will only be granted upon the complete justification of previously received funds.
Adherence to Work Plans: All activities must align with the approved Annual Work Plan, and any amendments require prior approval from the donors.
Dormant Bank Accounts: All project bank accounts must remain inactive following the project’s closing date, with any unutilized funds transferred back to the donors.
Request for Extensions: Requests for project extensions must be formally communicated to the donors, with written confirmation required.
Notification of Signatory Changes: Changes to the project bank account signatories must be promptly reported to the donors.
Strict Compliance with Manuals: Any guidelines outlined in project manuals or handbooks must be strictly followed.
To enhance oversight, the ACC plans to establish a Task Force responsible for auditing all ongoing projects. This team will ensure accountability among Project Heads and fiduciary staff, particularly Project Accountants and Auditors, in cases where irregularities could impose liabilities on the government.
The ACC reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public and donor funds, urging public officers to adhere to due processes in the implementation of donor projects.
Failure to comply with these guidelines will result in public officials being held personally accountable for any financial losses attributed to their negligence. The Commission has pledged to use its full powers to enforce these measures effectively.
