By Jariatu S Bangura
In a bid to uphold transparency and integrity in operations, Freetown Terminal, one of Sierra Leone’s key shipping and logistics hubs, rolled out a robust campaign aimed at eradicating corruption among its staff.
The initiative was in commemoration of World International Anti-Corruption Day at the terminal’s headquarters, part of an overarching commitment to enhance accountability and professional ethics in the workplace.
With the theme “Our decisions shape our reputation, the program underscores the company’s zero-tolerance policy towards corrupt practices and its dedication to fostering a culture of honesty.
Chairing the program, Dominic Sesay said it is no mistake to the chosen theme as life is a decisive choice and corruption is a collective business that concerns everyone.
He described corruption to be a cancer to integrity and as it ensures a group commitment, compliance being key and everyone should participate in it.
“Our decisions shape our reputation ” life is full of choices, so it is good that we all know the that it is a lifetime commitment to eradicate corruption in all spheres of life. Let us remember that corruption is everybody’s business and not a one-man show”.
Managing Director for Freetown Terminal, Maroun Abi Aad, said it is a day to underscore the organization’s commitment to corruption and called on all employees to abide, and that no excuse is acceptable- whether direct or indirect, they all should be alert and report any suspected cases should they encounter.
He said it is the responsibility of everyone to understand their company’s value, and they should work to build reputation.
Keynote Speaker, Coordinator of Operations of Anti-Corruption Commission, Emmanuel Amara Esq., said they are glad to know that FTL/AGL holds such function as the life line of Sierra Leone lies in fighting corruption; therefore, he calls on other organizations to follow such initiative in the fight against corruption.
He said corruption undermines the economic growth of any institution, which means that the need to help reduce the cause is necessary.
He said it has greater effects not just to the institution but the society as well.
He said the need for collaboration is key to combat the menace, and that corporate practice is critical for prioritize corruption.
He urged business entities and other organizations to create a code of conduct to guide staff to promote public integrity.
He said every decision towards corporate practice counts. “No matter the position occupied, it will uphold or pull down the effort made so far and the integrity of the organization they represent.”
