What I enjoy most is helping an organisation to see things differently. It is not simply about checking whether a process has been followed, but about considering the bigger picture, as a decision may be technically permissible but still create reputational risk. Auditing shows things from another angle, identifying risks an organisation should be watching while challenging existing thinking. Ultimately, it is rewarding to know my work helps an organisation grow and make better decisions.
I started out as an audit trainee at the Gambia Investment and Export Promotion Agency. I then joined an audit firm and progressed to audit manager before moving to the National Water and Electricity Corporation to strengthen its financial data integrity. I later established and now lead the internal audit function at the Petroleum Commission of The Gambia.
Always asking what the risks are leads to better decision-making
I stepped out of my comfort zone when I was asked to lead an external audit from scratch. I was accountable for the audit and team, who expected the best of me as their leader. My biggest achievement, though, was establishing the internal audit function at the Petroleum Commission from scratch. There was nothing to build on, just a mandate. I worked through it by researching international standards, consulting other professionals and planning the process from first principles.
One of the biggest challenges facing The Gambia is turning economic growth into real opportunities for its young population. What is needed is job creation, skills investment, stronger institutions and better public financial management. Poor corporate governance and limited access to finance for SMEs remain real constraints. I see accountability as key, ensuring limited public resources achieve their intended outcomes. The best opportunities lie in strengthening governance, particularly in the petroleum and energy sector, which can help translate growth into real national benefit. Improving access to finance and skills development for young people and SMEs will also broaden opportunities.
My mantra is simple: what are the risks? Before making decisions, I always ask myself that question, as taking a moment helps me look beyond the immediate issue and understand the possible consequences. It leads to more informed decision-making.
Audit should not just identify problems but also provide meaningful action
If I had law-making powers, I would strengthen accountability for corruption and financial mismanagement in public institutions. Expenditure rules should also be tightened to prevent waste. I would require audit recommendations to be properly implemented, as audit should not just identify problems but also provide meaningful action.
If I were not an accountant, I would have been interested in becoming a doctor or working in IT. Medicine appeals to me because it can make a direct difference to people’s lives, while technology interests me because of how it transforms organisations and society. Both careers offer opportunities to solve problems and make a meaningful contribution.
Outside work, I enjoy football, particularly local tournaments in The Gambia. I also enjoy lecturing, which gives me the chance to share knowledge and interact with others. Chess is another passion – I enjoy thinking strategically and would love to develop my skills further.
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