Working as a woman in the male-dominated maritime industry can be demanding. This is particularly so when I go onboard the organisation’s internal vessels – a tugboat and a dredger – to witness fuel deliveries or conduct inspections on fuel-tank balances, and when I carry out end-of-year stock counts at the stores for internal control purposes. What I like best about my job is that I can add value, by analysing the effectiveness of policies and procedures and identifying opportunities for improvement. Contributing to cost savings for the organisation keeps me interested.
I have spent my entire career working with the Gambia Ports Authority (GPA), which provides ship and cargo handling services to maritime and shipping companies in Banjul, the country’s only port. I joined the organisation fresh from secondary school and over more than 20 years have risen through the ranks, from audit clerk to audit specialist.
A major advantage of a career in the public sector is access to professional development
I started my accountancy training while at work, first taking my AAT and later my ACCA qualification. My main inspiration to work in finance was my parents, who always wanted me to be a chartered accountant. A major advantage of building a career in the public sector is access to professional development opportunities; there is room for growth as new skills can be gained through funding for education and training. However, a disadvantage is the potential for bureaucratic hurdles; for example, there are many layers in processing financial transactions when paying a supplier.
I stepped out of my comfort zone when I moved temporarily from internal audit to head the procurement department. It was a remarkable experience for me, as I came across many activities during my day-to-day work that I hadn’t encountered in internal audit, such as dealing directly with service providers/suppliers. It was an interesting experience, but procurement is not an area where I see myself working in the long run.
My favourite quote is this: ‘Where there is life, there is hope.’ I love this because I believe that no one should give up in life. No matter how difficult the situation is, just be optimistic and have a positive mindset, while remembering that there is always a chance for improvement, no matter the obstacles.
If I had law-making powers, I would concentrate on developing our anti-corruption laws. Corruption is rising drastically around the world, with reports of people in public office engaged in fraudulent practices such as misappropriation of funds. To safeguard taxpayers’ money and for the good of the nation, we need a strong anti-corruption law that is fully enforced.
What I enjoy the most about my job is the collaboration with my team members
What I enjoy the most about my job is the collaboration with my team members, especially the discussions on prevailing issues that may have a significant impact on future audit assignments and how we address them. It is also satisfying to see the recommendations I give during audit assignments being implemented and bringing improvements to the GPA.
My biggest achievement is my family, my husband and kids. Even after all these years, I still count becoming an ACCA affiliate in 2010 as a significant achievement, alongside attaining my MBA 14 years later, with the added challenge of being a full-time working mother.
If I was not a qualified accountant I would have liked to work in the aviation industry. I was always enthusiastic about being a cabin crew member when I was younger! I also have a great passion for the tech industry, so I might have worked in the IT field.
In my own time, I enjoy cooking for the family, especially at the weekend. I also like watching movies and listening to music – I love Nigerian afrobeats. Exploring new places, meeting different people and learning about new cultures is also a passion. My favourite trip was to Tanzania where I was privileged to see the Maasai tribe and their colourful culture.
