By: Alex A. Bah, Public Relations Assistant, ACC
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has commenced a five-day Mid-Term Review Training, from 16th–21st May 2025, on the Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) component of the Productive Social Safety Net and Youth Employment (PSSNYE) Project. The training, currently underway at NABs Village, Nyagohun Junction in Bo, brings together GRM staff, including District Monitors, to assess progress, address challenges, and integrate new strategies into the project’s ongoing implementation.
The session follows a recent World Bank Deep-Dive engagement, during which the ACC received high commendation for its effective GRM implementation credited with strengthening transparency and accountability within the PSSNYE program.
In his address, Deputy Commissioner, ACC, Augustine Foday Ngobie underscored the importance of improving feedback mechanisms for grievance handling. He acknowledged the World Bank's expectations around investigations but highlighted the practical challenges that come with the process.
“Investigations, by their nature, take time. Sierra Leone is a small country, and witness apprehension can be a serious challenge, especially when people are hesitant to come forward,” he stated.
He noted that while the World Bank requested a 30-day resolution period down from the standard 90 days such a timeframe is not feasible given the realities of investigative work. “Investigations must follow due process. Our objective is to ensure the program benefits the people. If anomalies are discovered and there is sufficient evidence, we will pursue legal action. But our priority is to recover and return funds to the rightful beneficiaries without depriving them of their entitlements,” he emphasized.
Referencing a case involving a mobile network operator that imposed undue charges, Mr. Ngobie explained how the ACC acted swiftly without withholding beneficiaries' funds. “Keeping recovered monies as court exhibits delays restitution and defeats the purpose of the program,” he concluded.
Project Coordinator, ACC, Patrick Monrovia also addressed the gathering, commending Deputy Commissioner Ngobie for his strong leadership. He highlighted the Commission’s impressive rating from the World Bank placed within the 70–80% satisfaction range, a rating he described as difficult to achieve.
“This is a reflection of the Commission’s responsiveness and integrity in delivering this critical component of the project,” Mr. Monrovia noted.
The Mid-Term Review serves as a form of self-assessment and is expected to strengthen commitment among GRM staff to uphold high standards and push toward a “Highly Satisfactory” rating from the World Bank, a distinction that would mark a significant milestone for the Commission.
The training will continue with participation from other senior officials, including the Commissioner, Coordinator of Operations, Director of Investigations, and Director of Finance, who are expected to join in the coming days
