Kandeh Sesay

A new report by the Institute for Governance Reform (IGR) has uncovered serious financial and governance concerns surrounding Sierra Leone’s e-passport contract.

According to the report, between 60,000 and 70,000 passports are printed and sold annually, generating an estimated USD 7 million to USD 9 million each year. However, the IGR says it found no evidence that any royalty payments were paid into the Government of Sierra Leone’s Consolidated Revenue Fund.

Jamal Shallop CEO Netpage SL

The report further notes that, priced between USD 100 and USD 180, Sierra Leone’s e-passport is among the most expensive in the West African sub-region, raising questions about affordability and public interest.

Despite mounting concerns over excessive costs, loss of state revenue, and lack of transparency, the e-passport contract has reportedly been renewed at least three times without any competitive bidding process or clear assessment of value for money.

The findings have intensified calls for full disclosure of the contract terms, an independent audit, and accountability for the apparent revenue losses to the state.