Administrative officials testified Monday before the Local Government Commission regarding significant revenue losses at Kuntaur Area Council. Saihou Jawara and Pa Nfansu Darboe explained how collectors frequently underreport their earnings to the council. The same personnel responsible for gathering funds also conduct annual assessments, creating opportunities for suppression. Lead counsel noted that two collectors hiding D119,000 each would equal half the annual government subvention. Government funding has remained at approximately D500,000 since 2018, which officials consider inadequate for development needs.
Darboe reported revenue growth from D3 million in 2010 to D7 million in 2020 through enhanced monitoring and task force operations. Both witnesses advocated for independent verification teams to establish realistic collection targets. Poor transportation resources and limited business activity complicate revenue gathering efforts. External data collection would help councils plan development projects more effectively. The Commission continues investigating public fund management practices and accountability implementation across local councils.
Darboe reported revenue growth from D3 million in 2010 to D7 million in 2020 through enhanced monitoring and task force operations. Both witnesses advocated for independent verification teams to establish realistic collection targets. Poor transportation resources and limited business activity complicate revenue gathering efforts. External data collection would help councils plan development projects more effectively. The Commission continues investigating public fund management practices and accountability implementation across local councils.
