By: Fatoumatta Krubally
Mr. Farimang Manneh, Chairman of Eco-Tech Africa, appeared for the second time before the Local Government Commission of Inquiry, providing crucial testimony on his company's contract with the Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC). Eco-Tech Africa had been contracted to manage revenue collection using specialist machinery, a project aimed at improving the council's financial operations.
During his testimony on Monday, December 9, 2024, Mr. Manneh highlighted that KMC employees initially received training on the use of these machines, which are essential for effective revenue collection. However, he noted a worrying decline in their usage, saying: “KMC employees were trained to use the machines, but they stopped using them about two years ago. » This neglect raises important questions about the operational effectiveness of the project and the council's commitment to maximizing its resources.
The contractual agreement, as stipulated in clause 4, required that the KMC and Eco-Tech Africa carry out monthly reconciliations to ensure transparency. Mr. Manneh revealed that this practice was only followed for a year, saying: “We only carried out the reconciliations for a year. » The lack of ongoing reconciliation raises concerns about financial oversight and accountability in the management of public funds.
Mr Manneh also addressed the financial aspects of the agreement, which stipulated a base income of D1,600,000, with any higher amount to be shared between the KMC and Eco-Tech Africa. He highlighted the profitability of the project, saying: “We were making 17 million dalasis (D17,000,000) per year just from the 'Mbalit' project. » This highlights the significant revenue potential that could benefit both parties if the contract was managed effectively.
Mr. Manneh's testimony highlights the importance of respecting contractual obligations and maintaining transparency in public services. The community is now questioning the effectiveness of the partnership between the KMC and Eco-Tech Africa, particularly in light of the operational challenges and financial gaps revealed during the investigation. As the investigation continues, the implications of Mr. Manneh's statements will undoubtedly be scrutinized by the media and the public, highlighting the need for increased accountability in the governance and management of municipal resources.
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