President John Dramani Mahama has directed the Auditor-General to launch a comprehensive forensic audit into the financial and operational management of the recent 13th All-Africa Games.
The directive, issued on Tuesday, November 4, follows the submission of a detailed report by the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) concerning the organization and management of the continental sporting event.
The President’s action emphasizes the government’s firm resolve to ensure transparency, accountability, and value for money in the stewardship of public funds.
Scope of the Investigation
The wide-ranging forensic audit is structured to meticulously examine five key areas, aiming to uncover any discrepancies or breaches of public financial laws:
• Procurement and Contracting Processes: The audit will scrutinize all tendering activities, the selection of contractors and suppliers, and critically assess compliance with the Public Procurement Act (Act 663) as amended.
• Financial Management and Expenditure Control: This section will meticulously trace all sources of funding, including government subventions and private sponsorships, and track all disbursements and expenditures related to the Games.
• Infrastructure and Project Delivery: Investigators will assess the implementation of all Games facilities, focusing on cost variations, adherence to timelines, and the overall value-for-money outcome of every project.
• Asset Management and Post-Games Utilisation: The process will include a rigorous verification of the inventory, legal ownership, and current operational status of all assets that were procured or constructed for the event.
• Institutional Oversight and Coordination: The roles, responsibilities, and overall effectiveness of all agencies and committees involved in the planning and execution of the 13th All-Africa Games will be evaluated.