By: Patrick Hinga George, Public Education Officer, ACC
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Kenema Regional Office has engaged staff of the National Emergency Medical Services (NEMS) at the Kenema Government Hospital on 12th August 2025, as part of its public education campaign to promote integrity, accountability, and professionalism in healthcare delivery. The meeting stressed the critical role of emergency medical workers in safeguarding public trust and preventing corruption in the sector.
Addressing the gathering, Regional Director, Hawanatu O. Kamara, described corruption as destructive and urged NEMS staff to serve with integrity, prioritizing public interest over personal gain. She reminded them that the Anti-Corruption Act 2008 (as amended in 2019) has made corruption a high-risk venture with consequences including hefty fines, imprisonment, and reputational damage. She emphasized that the ACC’s work extends beyond investigation to include prevention and awareness-raising.
Prevention Officer, Abiebatu Abu-Mattia, outlined how adherence to established procedures, proper documentation, and effective communication can greatly reduce corruption risks. She presented practical strategies such as transparent fuel usage, fairness in prioritizing cases, and honesty in emergency referrals. She encouraged staff to see themselves as “integrity champions,” noting that preventing corruption requires both strong institutional systems and personal discipline.
Complementing the prevention message, Investigation Officer, Andrew Komeh, detailed key corruption offences common in the health sector, including misappropriation of resources, abuse of office, and soliciting or accepting bribes. He explained the severe legal penalties attached to such offences and underscored the Commission’s commitment to holding all public officers accountable regardless of rank. He encouraged NEMS staff to familiarize themselves with the law and report suspected corrupt practices through the ACC’s official channels.
Speaking on operational realities, Kenema District Coordinator for NEMS, Albert N. Ndaloma, outlined the service’s primary focus on maternity emergencies, with five operational locations in Blama, Tongo Field, Gbuajebu, Joru, and the Kenema Government Hospital. He clarified that fuel allocations are primarily for free maternity services, with exceptions for severe accidents or special referrals, in which case costs are determined by mileage. His remarks acknowledged both the service’s constraints and its commitment to transparency.
Closing the engagement, Hospital Secretary, Edward N. Amara, commended the ACC’s proactive public education efforts, describing them as vital in promoting integrity within the health sector. He urged NEMS staff to consistently demonstrate professionalism, positive conduct, and effective communication, stressing that the quality of their service and interactions with the public directly influences confidence in the healthcare system.
