One of my red-letter and eye opening experiences, I encountered during my participation on a Financial Supervision mission with the district’s supervision team at a health center I’ll not mention. On the district’s Pilotage Committee’s recommendation this visit was organized and carried out unannounced due to high suspicion of public fund’s misuse. On arrival the In-charge portrayed some resistance and almost hoping to dismiss the event because she couldn’t understand why pick on her and the way she believes she does her best in the interest of the health center, staff and community. The Accountant was in support and demanding explanation why that should not be taken for an ambushing audit. Now there is a significant difference between an audit and supervision activity; on this round I wished I would serve as the auditor general. It wasn’t long before we brought to light implemented accounting schemes, and the thrilling part was when the MNE commended my diligence and shared insights of forged, incorrect and incomplete accounting documents and procedures. Since that isn’t my daily incidence, it led to my appreciation of GHC’s vision to create means for diverse professions’ participation in the health sector for exposure and development. Before long, different authorities and the social media were involved and the accountant was put in police custody and the In-charge was called for her statement.
Then did I learn a lesson for life application; when in leadership position, you should never take anything for granted nor should you be so confident to assume your staff’s innocence. It is vital to ensure a clear structure, well defined job descriptions, continuous internal monitoring and regular external audits in order to promote transparency for efficiency.