By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
The Financial Intelligence Agency (FIA) of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the World Bank, will host a high-level workshop on Anti-Money Laundering (AML), Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF), and Proliferation Financing Strategies.
The two-day event is scheduled to take place from May 20 to May 21, 2025, at the Galliness Paradise Hotel in Freetown.
This pivotal workshop aims to strengthen Sierra Leone’s national frameworks for combating financial crimes. It will bring together key stakeholders from government agencies, law enforcement bodies, financial institutions, and civil society organizations.
The sessions will focus on improving the design and implementation of effective AML/CTF strategies, aligning them with international standards set by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and the Intergovernmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA).
The FIA emphasized the urgent need for a robust system to mitigate the risks posed by financial crimes, which have serious implications for both national security and economic stability.
“This workshop represents a significant step toward reinforcing our commitment to addressing these challenges,” said an FIA spokesperson. “Through collaboration with international partners like the World Bank, we aim to develop a comprehensive action plan tailored to Sierra Leone’s specific context.”
Participants will take part in interactive sessions designed to foster dialogue, share best practices, and build institutional capacity. The workshop’s outcomes are expected to inform national policy and bolster the ability of local institutions to detect and prevent financial crimes.
As Sierra Leone continues to navigate a complex economic environment, this workshop reflects a proactive approach to protecting its financial system. The FIA remains committed to promoting transparency and accountability, which are essential to the country’s growth and long-term stability.
For more information, contact the National Risk Assessment and Outreach Department at the FIA.