Journalists Equipped to Turn Audit Reports into Public Action

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has commended the Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL) for organizing a capacity-building workshop for journalists, emphasizing the importance of media in promoting transparency and accountability.

Speaking at the opening of the workshop held at the Empowerment Hall, FCC Building, SLAJ President Alhaji Manika Kamara highlighted the critical role of journalists in translating audit findings into information that citizens can understand and act upon.

“The work of the Audit Service is central to building trust in public institutions,” Alhaji Kamara said. “By auditing government ministries, departments, agencies, and local councils, ASSL provides an accurate picture of how public funds are managed. But the true impact depends on how well the public understands and engages with these findings and that is where journalists play a vital role.”

The workshop aims to train journalists on audit laws and processes, empowering them to turn technical reports into stories that inform public debate and demand accountability from leaders.

Alhaji Kamara called for the partnership between SLAJ and ASSL to be institutionalized, recommending regular training sessions across the country. He also stressed the importance of simplifying audit findings through summaries, infographics, or citizen-friendly versions to improve public engagement.

“ASSL’s work does not end with producing audit reports. Findings must be followed up by Parliament and, in some cases, investigated by the Anti-Corruption Commission,” he noted. “Journalists must understand these linkages to track whether audit recommendations are implemented or if impunity prevails.”

He encouraged all participants to actively engage in the workshop, asking questions and building networks that will strengthen reporting standards.

SLAJ reaffirmed its commitment to deepening collaboration with ASSL to foster a stronger culture of accountability in Sierra Leone, where citizens are empowered to demand responsible use of public resources.