A special audit conducted by the National Audit Office has uncovered that over 1.3 million dalasis allocated for a Medical Research Council project were improperly transferred to Dr. Jagne’s account, with no supporting evidence for their use.
Furthermore, more than 5 million dalasis were identified in questionable payments made to casual workers, prompting EFSTH management to verify the identities of these workers.
Staff member Patrick Idoko received upwards of 600,000 dalasis without attending work; although the funds have been returned, auditors have recommended that he be suspended.
EFSTH management reported submitting some receipts and outlined plans to authenticate the workers while addressing Idoko’s circumstances and the repayment agreement.
The audits underscore the necessity for enhanced oversight and internal controls within Gambia’s health sector.