Ministry of Finance Engages MDAs on Control, Risk and Compliance in the Public Sector

The Directorate of Internal Audit at the Ministry of Finance on Monday, 9th February 2026, commenced a nationwide workshop aimed at strengthening institutional capacity in Control, Risk and Compliance across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). The opening session was held at Country Lodge, Hill Station, Freetown.

In his welcome remarks, the Director of Internal Audit, Kandeh Sesay, said the workshop seeks to enhance a shared understanding of roles and responsibilities within the Public Financial Management (PFM) governance framework. He noted that it is also intended to reinforce the oversight, assurance, and advisory functions of Internal Audit Units within MDAs.

Mr. Sesay explained that the workshop aims to increase awareness of the mandate and expectations of the Internal Audit Directorate and Units in MDAs, while deepening participants’ understanding of the importance of internal control, risk management, and compliance in promoting accountability and effective service delivery. He added that the sessions will also promote alignment with key legal and regulatory frameworks, including the PFM Act and the Global Internal Audit Standards 2024.

He emphasized that knowledge sharing should become standard practice among MDAs, Local Councils, and oversight bodies in managing risks and addressing control weaknesses. He further underscored the need for stronger collaboration between Internal Audit Units, Audit Committees, management teams, and external stakeholders to enhance compliance and ensure the effective implementation of audit recommendations.

Mr. Sesay assured participants that the workshop would strengthen understanding of institutional Control, Risk and Compliance Frameworks, improve communication and coordination between Audit Units, Committees, and management, and help identify key capacity gaps and risk areas. He noted that practical and actionable recommendations would be provided to improve internal control systems, risk management practices, and compliance monitoring across MDAs and Local Councils.

The Deputy Financial Secretary (Administration), Mamie Miatta Kallon, also assured participants that the workshop would introduce best practices and practical approaches for strengthening institutional capacity, enhancing coordination, and building resilient systems capable of sustaining positive reforms.

Dr. William Tucker, Chairman of the Government Audit Committee, stated that the workshop would contribute to the development of robust policies and procedures, as well as establish clear guidelines for Control, Risk Management, and Compliance.

He further emphasized that the initiative would strengthen the Risk Management Framework by encouraging institutions to proactively identify, assess, and mitigate risks, rather than responding only after issues arise.

According to Dr. Tucker, such engagements will improve governance and decision-making processes, reduce control weaknesses, enhance transparency and accountability, and ultimately promote better service delivery and public trust.

The workshop will continue in Bo and Makeni, where the Internal Audit Directorate, with support from the African Federation of Institutes of Internal Auditors, will engage Local Councils and other stakeholders to further strengthen internal controls for improved service delivery nationwide.