(Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, January 17, 2025)—the Ministry of Health (MOH) has commenced a week-long refresher training for its Internal Audit Unit and associated staff. The training session was held in the Port City of Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, from January 13 to 17, 2025. It aims to enhance the professional capabilities of internal auditors and associated personnel in alignment with international best practices. In his opening remarks on behalf of the Minister of Health, Hon. George Jacobs, Assistant Minister for Policy and Planning, emphasized the importance of continuous learning in maintaining a robust internal audit framework. He stated: “We welcome all of you to Buchanan for this important training session. It is designed to enhance your skills and deepen your understanding of your critical role within the Ministry. We urge all participants to dedicate themselves to this training, which will empower you to excel in your responsibilities. On this note, I officially declare this workshop open and wish you all the best in your endeavors.” The training’s core objectives include upgrading the knowledge base of internal auditors, enhancing report writing skills, exploring the internal audit universe, strengthening risk assessment capabilities, and improving communication and interpersonal skills. These competencies are critical for ensuring effective and transparent audit practices that align with the standards set by the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF).

Key topics addressed during the training include: Strategy, Budget & Economy; Risk Assessment & Audit Planning; and Fraud Audit & Fraud Awareness. The program brought together participants from various offices within the Ministry, including the Office of the Minister, Offices of the Deputy Ministers for Administration, Health Services, and Policy & Planning, as well as the Financial Management, Community Health Services, Compliance, Procurement, Communications, and Warehouse Units. Facilitated by Executive Directors and Sector Directors from the Internal Audit Agency, the training leveraged the facilitators’ extensive expertise in auditing, financial management, risk assessment, and performance management to ensure a comprehensive learning experience. The Ministry of Health remains committed to promoting professional growth and ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficiency in its operations.