By Fatou Krubally
The National Environment Agency (NEA) has faced scrutiny from the Finance and Public Accounts Committee (FPAC) of The Gambia’s National Assembly over procurement discrepancies and unresolved audit issues covering the period from 2021 to 2023.
During the committee’s review session, lawmakers raised concerns over a procurement irregularity initially reported at D5.2 million but later found to potentially reach D11 million. The discrepancy relates to payments made for deliveries that were allegedly not received.
FPAC members noted that the matter is currently before the courts and instructed the agency to provide full disclosure once legal proceedings conclude. The committee further directed that updated figures be reflected in the agency’s 2024 financial accounts.
Auditors also highlighted governance weaknesses, including the absence of a dedicated whistleblowing policy. NEA officials acknowledged that while whistleblowing provisions are referenced within internal policies developed since 2021, a standalone framework has yet to be established.
The agency informed lawmakers that drafting a dedicated whistleblowing policy has been prioritised, with responsibility assigned to the Director of Administration and Finance and the Human Resources Manager.
The committee additionally reviewed NEA’s draft risk management framework, which is currently under consideration by the administration and finance committee. According to the agency, once validated, the framework will be submitted to senior management and the National Environment Management Council for final approval.
Lawmakers stressed the need for prompt implementation of audit recommendations, cautioning against delays pending committee or plenary sessions.
On environmental compliance, NEA reported adherence to the National Environment Management Act (1994) in the approval of environmental impact assessments, including public disclosure requirements. However, auditors identified incomplete project files and requested documented evidence of public notices and publications.
NEA assured the committee that supporting documentation, including newspaper clippings and public notices, will be properly maintained going forward.
Regarding financial management, the agency highlighted improvements in transaction classification and the implementation of accounting software, which it said has reduced miscoding errors. While acknowledging these improvements, FPAC emphasised the need for sustained oversight to prevent recurrence of past deficiencies.
The committee concluded by setting a deadline of 25 February 2026 for NEA to provide comprehensive updates on outstanding financial and procedural matters, reinforcing calls for transparency and accountability within the agency.