BY PROBLYN J ALPHA
A damning revelation has emerged regarding the efficacy of the school feeding project in Kono District, Sierra Leone. Despite claims of benefiting nine chiefdoms, only two are actually receiving the purported assistance from the government and its partners.
This shocking disclosure surfaced during a citizen’s engagement event held at the Sahr Sessie Gbenda Hall in Bona Street, Koidu City, orchestrated by Audit Service Sierra Leone (ASSL). Participants, including paramount chiefs, councillors, civil society representatives, and various community members, voiced concerns over the blatant disregard for the welfare of students and the mismanagement of allocated resources.
The meeting shed light on egregious malpractices, with reports indicating that some school administrations exploit parents and guardians by falsely claiming transport expenses for the delivery of feeding supplies. This exploitation not only undermines President Bio’s administration but also compromises the principles of free quality education championed by President Julius Maada Bio.
Furthermore, the discussion unearthed a multitude of governance failures, including the misappropriation of funds meant for crucial infrastructure projects such as culverts, non-functional security border patrols despite allocated funds, and irregularities in the administration of WASSEC entries.
Additional grievances voiced by participants included the purchase of bail at police stations, absenteeism of certain councillors despite receiving allowances, and the disconcerting scenario of sanitary officers drawing salaries without fulfilling their duties.
Jonathan Teckham, Head of the Eastern Region Division at ASSL, emphasized the organization’s commitment to enhancing service delivery and urged stakeholders to serve as whistleblowers to combat systemic corruption effectively.
Paramount Chief Edward Mbawa of Gbani Kandor Chiefdom and Chairman of the Council of Paramount Chiefs in Kono District advocated for the establishment of an Audit Service Sierra Leone office in Kono District to address governance lapses effectively.
The participants called for urgent action to address cross-cutting audit issues, particularly in healthcare, agriculture, and education sectors, emphasizing the timely provision of essential resources and equitable distribution of services.
In conclusion, the citizens expressed appreciation for the initiative taken by ASSL in fostering inclusive participation and accountability in governance. However, they underscored the pressing need for concrete actions to rectify the identified shortcomings and ensure transparent and effective service delivery for the welfare of all citizens.