Finance Minister Assures ICASL of Continued Government Support

Finance Minister Karefa A. F. Kargbo has assured the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Sierra Leone (ICASL) that Government support for the profession will continue, including annual funding and assistance in securing permanent office accommodation.

The assurance was given during a courtesy visit by the ICASL Executive to the Minister’s office on George Street, Freetown, on Monday, October 5, 2026.

Priorities for the accounting profession

The delegation congratulated Kargbo on his appointment and outlined priorities aimed at strengthening the accounting profession and its contribution to public financial management.

ICASL President Leslie Williams appealed for the timely completion and signing of a proposed Memorandum of Understanding between the institute and the Ministry of Finance. The agreement remains outstanding.

Williams also briefed the Minister on efforts to review the legislation governing ICASL. He said the proposed review is intended to strengthen the institute’s mandate and ensure that all Chartered Accountants practising in Sierra Leone are incorporated into its membership.

Another issue raised was the participation of local audit firms in audits of donor-funded projects. Williams called for greater involvement by those firms, saying it would help build their capacity and broaden their professional experience.

He also requested Government assistance in securing permanent office space for ICASL. According to Williams, the annual Government subvention has made a significant contribution to the institute’s operations.

Government commitments

Kargbo assured the delegation that the Government’s annual subvention to ICASL would continue. He also pledged to follow up on the outstanding Memorandum of Understanding between the institute and the Ministry of Finance.

The Minister said he would engage Financial Secretary Matthew Dingie and Accountant General Richard Williams to advance the completion and signing of the agreement.

Kargbo further assured ICASL of Government’s commitment to supporting its efforts to secure a permanent structure. No specific location, timeline or funding arrangement for the proposed office accommodation was provided.

The Minister was described as a Fellow Chartered Accountant with a close association with ICASL. Williams regarded the appointment of an ICASL member to oversee the country’s economic management as a source of pride for the profession.