Nairobi, Kenya – Anti-Corruption Commissioner, Francis Ben Kaifala Esq., received widespread acclaim at the 8th Annual General Assembly of the Association of African Anti-Corruption Authorities (AAACA) for a compelling presentation on the country’s highly effective asset declaration system.
Delivering one of the standout addresses of the conference, Commissioner Kaifala highlighted Sierra Leone’s innovative reforms and impressive compliance rates, positioning the West African nation as a leader in the continental fight against corruption.
In his presentation, which followed those from Madagascar and Nigeria, Kaifala detailed key elements of the country’s asset declaration regime, including the biennial declaration cycle, rigorous verification and lifestyle audits, streamlined categories of declarants, and strong administrative sanctions.
Record compliance achieved
He revealed that Sierra Leone recorded a compliance rate of 99.61% in the 2024/2025 declaration cycle and the first quarter of 2026. Out of 17,253 targeted public officials, 17,186 successfully declared their assets, leaving just 67 defaulters. Additionally, 178 out of 182 Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) achieved full 100% compliance.
Kaifala attributed the success to strong political will from the Government of Sierra Leone and consistent presidential support. He noted that salaries of certain senior officials were withheld until they fulfilled their declaration obligations.
The Commissioner also emphasised that Sierra Leone’s system is fully digital, enhancing efficiency, transparency and accessibility. A mandatory affirmation clause on the declaration form further strengthens the credibility of submitted information. Through detailed analysis and verification, the Anti-Corruption Commission can detect under-declarations, over-declarations, and other discrepancies for further investigation.
High praise from peers
The presentation drew strong praise from delegates across the continent. Rose Nizishemeye, Representative of the Integrity Group in Washington and member of the AAACA Secretariat, described Sierra Leone’s presentation as “the best” among the three country cases presented during the session.
Beyond his main address, Commissioner Kaifala actively contributed to discussions on eligibility criteria for candidates seeking election or re-election to the AAACA Executive Committee, leveraging his legal and governance expertise. He also moderated a session featuring Khaled Benguernane, Head of Algeria’s Anti-Corruption Agency, who presented on training initiatives and the newly launched Centre for Anti-Corruption Studies and Research in Africa (CEREAC).
New leadership elected
The Assembly concluded with the election of a new Executive Committee:
– President: Dr. Modibo Sacko (Mali)
– First Vice President: Hon. Reza Michael (Zimbabwe)
– Second Vice President: Khaled Benguernane (Algeria)
– West Africa Regional Representative: Cllr. Alexandra K. Zoe (Liberia)
Delegates also resolved that Libya will host the 9th AAACA Annual General Assembly in 2027.
The strong performance by Sierra Leone’s delegation has been widely viewed as a significant diplomatic and institutional success, further elevating the country’s profile in African anti-corruption efforts.
