By SKS
Audit Service Sierra Leone (AA-SL) on Tuesday 17th June 2025, commenced a two-day training program aimed at equipping its technical staff with the skills to operate a new, advanced audit software (A-SEAT).
The initiative, held at the New City Hall in Freetown on June 17 and 18, 2025, seeks to modernize the country’s auditing processes and improve transparency and accountability in public financial management.
The training, meant for 140 staff members, was facilitated with funding from the World Bank under the project “Accountable Governance for Basic Service Delivery.” Facilitator Wilnadegnaar from the African Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions-English Speaking, emphasized the importance of peer learning, encouraging participants to share knowledge and maximize the training’s benefits: “We learn from each other, so feel free to share knowledge with each other.”
Deputy Auditor-General Aiah Gbondo Tugbawa reflected on the progress made over the years, recalling a previous failed attempt at automating audits five years ago. “Thanks to the support of the World Bank and this project, we are now able to move forward,” he said.
He explained that the training is part of a broader effort to prepare staff for a significant shift in audit procedures, emphasizing principles of change management such as planning, training, monitoring, and evaluation.
Tugbawa highlighted the advantages of automated auditing, noting that “it improves the quality of our audit reports, which are produced annually.” While acknowledging potential challenges that may come with implementing this new system, he stressed the importance of empowerment and continuous improvement, calling on staff to actively participate in this transformative process.
This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, by strengthening Sierra Leone’s public financial management and promoting transparency and accountability in governance.
