By: Alex A. Bah, Public Relations Assistant, ACC
As part of efforts to bolster social accountability and enhance service delivery under the Productive Social Safety Net and Youth Employment (PSSNYE) Project, the National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA), in collaboration with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), has commenced a crucial regional training for Community Identification Committees (CICs), NaCSA staff, and ACC Community Monitors in Bo and Port Loko Districts.
Delivering a strong message at the opening session in Bo on Monday, 16th June, 2025, Deputy Commissioner of the ACC, Augustine Foday Ngobie, underscored the critical role of CICs in ensuring the transparent and effective implementation of the PSSNYE project. He noted that the inclusion of the ACC in the project was a strategic decision by the Government of Sierra Leone and the World Bank to reinforce integrity measures.
“The importance of this training is to ensure that everyone with a role knows exactly what that role entails,” he stated. “Officials of NaCSA cannot be in every community, so we rely on you the CICs to be our eyes and ears. If you are chosen and you compromise your duty, thereby preventing people from receiving their entitled benefits, the ACC will not hesitate to take action against you,” he sternly cautioned
He encouraged participants to take full advantage of the training and the tools being provided, stressing that these resources will enable them to fulfill their responsibilities with integrity and professionalism.
Highlighting the Commission’s active oversight, the Deputy Commissioner cited a recent case in one of the beneficiary districts where a Payment Service Provider (PSP) was found unlawfully deducting Le7 from each beneficiary’s cash payment. Following reports from vigilant community and district monitors, the ACC intervened, recovered the money, and returned it to the rightful recipients.
_“This is a clear example of why we place so much reliance on CICs, and your role is pivotal. Hence we urge you to continue supporting the work of the ACC. If you observe or suspect any malpractice, report it immediately by calling our toll-free line: 8515,” he concluded.
The training focuses on Social and Behavioral Change Communication (SBCC) and Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) strategies.
Participants are being equipped across a range of modules, including program information, financial literacy, health and nutrition, early childhood development, sexual and gender-based violence, and inclusive communication for persons with disabilities.
The initiative is part of a broader framework under the PSSNYE project at disbursing cash transfers as well as promoting positive behavioral changes for long-term improvements in human capital development.
Simultaneous training sessions are also underway in Port Loko for participants from the North and North-West regions.
