The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) in Sierra Leone have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance protection of resources meant for persons with disabilities (PWDs). The agreement, signed on October 1, 2026, aims to improve collaboration, raise anti-corruption awareness among PWDs, and promote greater involvement in accountability processes. This partnership seeks to move beyond paper commitments and translate into practical action.
NCPD Chairman and Chief Commissioner Brima Abdulai Sheriff emphasized that PWDs should not only benefit from accountability initiatives but also become active participants in promoting transparency and fighting corruption. He stressed that disability is not a ticket for corruption and lawlessness. Sheriff disclosed that he has proposed allocating a percentage of recovered corruption proceeds to the NCPD, highlighting the need for tangible outcomes from the partnership.
ACC Deputy Commissioner Augustine Foday Ngobie noted that the partnership should help shift the focus from dependency towards systems that recognize PWDs as citizens with equal rights and opportunities. He encouraged PWDs to report suspected corruption through the ACC's established communication channels, emphasizing their crucial role in protecting public resources. Ngobie highlighted the importance of sensitization, stronger reporting mechanisms, and increased participation of PWDs in the MoU's implementation.
The MoU between NCPD and ACC is expected to foster a collaborative environment that empowers PWDs to participate actively in anti-corruption efforts. By working together, the two institutions aim to promote a culture of transparency and accountability. This partnership also underscores the commitment of Sierra Leone's authorities to ensuring that resources meant for PWDs are utilized effectively and efficiently.
The agreement comes at a time when Sierra Leone is taking steps to strengthen its anti-corruption framework. The country has been working to enhance transparency and accountability in various sectors, including the management of resources for vulnerable groups like PWDs. The NCPD-ACC partnership is seen as a significant step towards achieving these goals.
As the MoU moves into implementation, the two institutions will focus on sensitization, stronger reporting mechanisms, and increased participation of PWDs. This will involve awareness-raising activities, capacity-building initiatives, and the establishment of effective channels for reporting corruption. The partnership's success will depend on the active engagement of PWDs and the broader community in promoting transparency and accountability.
The collaboration between NCPD and ACC has the potential to make a positive impact on the lives of PWDs in Sierra Leone. By protecting resources meant for PWDs and promoting anti-corruption efforts, the partnership can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society. The agreement's effectiveness will be closely watched, as it sets a precedent for similar partnerships in the future.
Key points
- NCPD and ACC sign MoU to protect resources for PWDs and boost anti-corruption efforts
- Partnership aims to promote transparency, accountability, and inclusion of PWDs in anti-corruption initiatives
- Agreement expected to foster a collaborative environment empowering PWDs to participate actively in anti-corruption efforts
