By: Fayia Jr. Moseray
In a landmark ceremony held at the Well of the UK Parliament over the weekend, Sierra Leone’s Anti-Corruption Commissioner, Francis Ben Kaifala, Esq., was honored with Africa’s prestigious Accountability and Transparency Award. The award recognizes outstanding leadership in promoting good governance, transparency, and accountability across the continent.
Commissioner Kaifala received the honor from the UK All-Party Parliamentary Group on Anti-Corruption and Integrity. The group commended his exemplary leadership in tackling corruption in Sierra Leone efforts that have led to tangible reforms and increased public trust in governance.
Speakers at the event praised Commissioner Kaifala for being a role model in the anti-graft space, with one UK MP stating:
“Commissioner Kaifala’s immense contributions have inspired a new generation of leaders across Africa to uphold the principles of good governance, transparency, and accountability.”
In his acceptance speech, Commissioner Kaifala expressed deep gratitude to the UK Parliament and the people of Sierra Leone. He dedicated the award to individuals who have lost their lives in the fight against corruption and to those still fighting to uphold integrity across Africa.
“Corruption is a cancer that eats away at the very fabric of our societies,” Kaifala noted. “We must work together across the continent to uphold transparency, enforce accountability, and demand integrity from our leaders.”
The well-attended event drew members of the UK Parliament, civil society organizations, and international partners. Many lauded Kaifala’s commitment to institutional reform and his results-driven approach to governance.
Another UK Parliamentarian added “Commissioner Kaifala’s leadership has not only strengthened Sierra Leone’s institutions but also made it clear that those in power must answer for their actions.”
The Accountability and Transparency Award stands as a powerful testament to Commissioner Kaifala’s tireless work and vision for a corruption-free Africa. His ongoing fight against corruption has ignited a broader movement—motivating leaders in public service, academia, and the private sector to prioritize ethics and responsibility.
Commissioner Kaifala reaffirmed his dedication to combating corruption both within Sierra Leone and throughout Africa.
“We will continue this robust fight. The goal is to reduce corruption to its lowest ebb and to ensure that future generations inherit institutions grounded in accountability and justice.”
The UK Parliament’s recognition of Commissioner Kaifala marks a significant milestone in Africa’s anti-corruption journey. It underscores the global importance of ethical leadership and reaffirms that the fight against corruption is both necessary and achievable through determined and transparent governance.