Freetown, 19th September, 2025 An Audit of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has revealed alarming financial and administrative lapses, including the disappearance of a government grant worth NLe 720 million and unresolved procurement contracts.
The grant, withdrawn in 2019 from the FA Cup special account at Sierra Leone Commercial Bank, lacked the required “no objection” clearance from the government. Despite assurances that the funds would be refunded, auditors report that the money remains unaccounted for, raising serious concerns about SLFA’s financial governance.
The audit, conducted by the SLFA Transition Committee, also flagged systemic weaknesses in financial oversight, including:
Delayed Audits & Missing Reports: Monthly management accounts are not produced, and the General Ledger remains misaligned with audited adjustments, undermining transparency and accountability.
Incomplete Asset Records: SLFA’s asset registers are poorly maintained, leaving gaps in documentation and verification of resources.
Procurement Irregularities: Oversight of procurement processes is weak, exposing the Association to risks of mismanagement and unaccountable spending.
One of the most glaring procurement failures involves a 2023–2024 contract with Tubanda Company Limited. SLFA paid USD $100,000 for four coaster buses, yet only two were delivered. The remaining $50,000 worth of vehicles has not been accounted for, and no explanation has been provided.
The findings, presented during an exit meeting at the SLFA Secretariat, paint a troubling picture of institutional dysfunction. Stakeholders are now calling for urgent reforms to restore public trust and ensure that funds allocated for national football development are properly managed.
