By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has wrapped up its inquiry into allegations of misappropriation regarding funds designated for the construction of a female hostel in Kailahun, Sierra Leone. The project, financed by the World Bank, was awarded to Unique Solutions Company Ltd. in March 2022, with a total contract value of Le 4.47 billion (old Leones).
The investigation was initiated after accusations were levelled against Project Manager Ambrose T. Sesay and Procurement Manager Mohamed Kallon. Both officials were interviewed, and investigators conducted site visits to assess the project’s progress.
According to the ACC’s findings, the project is nearing completion, with approximately 90% of the work finished. Practical completion has been achieved, and certificates have been issued, resulting in the disbursement of 90% of the total contract amount to the contractor. Remaining tasks, such as the installation of gates and a solar electricity system, have faced delays due to the remote nature of the site and pending modifications suggested by the World Bank in 2023.
In 2023, the World Bank recommended several additional facilities for the project, including a perimeter fence, an external kitchen, a dining hall, a playground, and a canopy for concrete benches. However, formal directives for these enhancements have yet to be provided.
Delays were also attributed to rising concerns from donor partners over increasing incidents of gender-based violence (GBV) in the education sector, which created hesitancy in further supporting the project.
Despite these challenges, the ACC has confirmed that the allocated funds are being used as intended, finding no signs of mismanagement or abandonment of the project.
The ACC thanked the whistle-blower and the public for their patience and engagement during the investigation. The findings aim to bolster public confidence and promote transparency in future infrastructure initiatives throughout Sierra Leone.
