Africa-Press – Gambia. A parliamentary committee Monday questioned officials of the Gambia National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) over operational controls, while raising concern in fuel management.
The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Public Enterprises (PEC), also questioned staff conducts and information technology oversight during its review of the corporation’s 2022–2023 activity and audit reports.
The session formed part of PEC’s ongoing scrutiny of state-owned enterprises, with lawmakers seeking clarification on audit findings related to fuel discharge procedures, verification controls, and governance structures within the corporation.
GNPC officials acknowledged that certain operational practices, including sales during fuel discharge, posed risks. They noted, however, that such activities are discouraged and staffers have been cautioned. Officials added that while these practices do not automatically result in shortages, failure to properly verify discharge volumes could expose the corporation to discrepancies, fraud, or environmental concerns.
Committee members questioned the adequacy of verification mechanisms, warning that incomplete documentation could undermine accountability. In response, GNPC representatives said verification templates have been introduced and staffers are now required to formally sign off on discharge confirmations to strengthen audit trails.
The discussion also highlighted past irregularities at selected stations, notably Bansang, which had prompted heightened internal scrutiny. GNPC officials attributed these issues primarily to human factors rather than technical capacity gaps and said disciplinary measures, including salary deductions and possible termination, have been applied in cases of repeated misconduct.
To address structural challenges, GNPC reported that fuel storage tanks have been recalibrated and logistics systems standardized to improve measurement accuracy and reduce potential losses. Officials acknowledged, however, that maintaining personnel integrity remains an ongoing industry-wide challenge requiring strict enforcement of sanctions.
PEC also queried governance and digital resilience, highlighting the absence of an IT steering committee at board level, as noted in the audit report. GNPC board leadership confirmed the gap existed at the time but assured lawmakers that plans are underway to reconstitute board committees, including oversight for technology matters.
Regarding disaster recovery preparedness, officials said discussions are ongoing with government IT authorities to establish a centralized backup system, although the process is capital-intensive and may take time to implement fully.
Members of the PEC stressed the importance of strengthening internal controls and prioritizing digital safeguards, noting that petroleum operations involve significant financial and operational risks.
The committee is expected to continue its examination of GNPC’s reports, with further recommendations likely to focus on enhancing governance, transparency, and operational accountability within the state petroleum corporation.
