The Regional Manager of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) in the North-West Region, Madam Fatu Florence Kamara, has called on the residents of Marampa Chiefdom in Lunsar to protect public funds and reject any form of corruption. Her message was delivered during a community sensitization event held on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at the Magistrate's Court Building in Lunsar, with local authorities and residents in attendance.
Explaining the purpose of the engagement, ACC Public Education Officer Mohamed Thullah stated that the initiative aimed to educate and raise awareness about corruption and its detrimental effects on Sierra Leone. He noted that corruption has permeated various levels of society, creating hardships for citizens nationwide.
In her address, Madam Kamara described corruption as a betrayal of public trust and a serious disservice to the people of Sierra Leone. She urged local authorities and public officers to align their actions with the needs and interests of the communities they serve.
Highlighting the issue of public funds, she clarified that monies provided by mining companies are public funds, allocated to communities as part of Community Development Agreements mandated by the Mines and Minerals Act to support local initiatives. “These funds should not be personalized or used for private enterprises,” she emphasized.
The Regional Manager underscored the importance of reporting any corruption or suspicious activities to the ACC, warning that remaining silent may be interpreted as condoning corruption. She urged local authorities to uphold transparency and accountability in managing funds held in trust for the people of Lunsar and Marampa Chiefdom. She added that the Community Development Fund should be administered by the Community Development Committee with a clear focus on community-driven projects.
Madam Kamara also discussed the forms of corruption often found in rural communities, citing specific issues within local courts, health centers, schools, and other sectors.
Public Education Officer Mohamed Thullah further explained the community’s role in combating corruption, outlined reporting channels at the ACC, and shared information on the Commission’s witness and informant protection mechanisms.
In his welcome statement, Mohamed P. Kanu, representing the Chiefdom Speaker, praised the ACC’s initiative and commended its efforts in fighting corruption.
The engagement concluded with the distribution of informational materials and an interactive question-and-answer session.
