The National Audit Office (NAO) of The Gambia has announced that Mr. Cherno Amadou Sowe, newly appointed by President Adama Barrow on September 10, 2025, has officially assumed the role of Auditor General, following the controversial removal of Modou Ceesay.
In accordance with Section 4 of the NAO Act, 2015, Mr. Sowe will be supported by the First and Second Deputy Auditors General, who oversee the technical auditing functions and administrative and financial matters, respectively. This structure ensures the NAO’s ability to execute its constitutional mandate effectively, promoting transparency and accountability in public sector operations.
With no formal handing-over ceremony, AG Sowe has proactively initiated orientation measures to ensure a seamless transition and maintain the continuity of the NAO’s critical functions. He has begun engaging with the two Deputy Auditors General to align efforts and set the tone for a collaborative leadership approach. Additionally, Sowe has scheduled meetings with senior management and staff to foster professionalism, unity, and a shared commitment to the NAO’s strategic vision.
Recognizing the importance of stakeholder collaboration, AG Sowe has also commenced outreach to external partners, including the Accountant General, to strengthen relationships vital to the NAO’s mission. These efforts underscore his dedication to enhancing public sector financial management through robust auditing practices.
In a statement, the NAO confirmed that operations within the office have returned to normal, with staff diligently carrying out their duties. AG Sowe has called on all stakeholders—government entities, civil society, and the public—to support the NAO’s constitutional mandate. “Collective support is essential to strengthening public sector financial management and ensuring accountability through effective auditing,” he emphasized.
The NAO plays a crucial role in auditing public funds, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, and providing recommendations to improve efficiency and transparency. With Sowe at the helm, the office is poised to build on its legacy of fostering trust in public institutions.
The NAO has expressed confidence in AG Sowe’s leadership, citing his commitment to professionalism and teamwork as key drivers for advancing the office’s objectives.
