The Senegalese parliamentary inquiry into the "One Student, One Computer" program has continued its hearings with agents from Sama PC. The focus was on a delivery note for 2,000 computers allegedly supplied by Oumou Group, which the audited agents claim they never received. One agent stated that he signed the document after receiving instructions from his superior.
The delivery note in question was dated 2023 and was received by Mamadou Sow, an agent of Sama PC, on November 11, 2024. Sow claims that the document was handed to him by the driver of Dr. Aboubacry Niane, who was in charge of the program at the time. The driver allegedly asked Sow to sign the document, explaining that the supplier was making arrangements with customs to release the computers.
Sow initially refused to sign but eventually did so after being instructed by his superior to do so. He also recorded a conversation with Dr. Aboubacry Niane and has promised to submit the recordings and other evidence to the parliamentary inquiry. Another agent, Serigne Abo Wade, corroborated Sow's claims, stating that Sama PC had never been in contact with Oumou Group and had not received any machines from them.
These revelations raise questions about the legitimacy of the delivery note presented to the agents. The parliamentary inquiry is investigating the implementation of the "One Student, One Computer" program and any potential irregularities. The inquiry's previous hearings revealed that over 800 computers paid for and delivered under the program were found to be defective.
The inquiry is also looking into allegations that the procurement procedure for the program was not followed. The "One Student, One Computer" program aims to provide computers to students, but its implementation has been marred by controversy. The parliamentary inquiry is expected to continue its hearings to shed light on the program's execution and any potential wrongdoing.
The scandal has raised concerns about the management of public funds and the implementation of government programs. The Senegalese government has not yet commented on the allegations, but the parliamentary inquiry is expected to submit its findings soon. The opposition has called for greater transparency and accountability in the management of public programs.
The "One Student, One Computer" program was launched to support students, but its implementation has been criticized. The parliamentary inquiry's findings are expected to have significant implications for the program's future and the management of public funds in Senegal.
Key points
- 2,000 computers allegedly never delivered under Senegal's "One Student, One Computer" program.
