Orange Sierra Leone strengthens corporate integrity through Compliance and Ethics Forum

By Gibrilla Kamara

Orange Sierra Leone has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to transparency, integrity, and ethical corporate governance by hosting a two-day Compliance and Ethics Forum last week. The event, held at the company’s head office in Hill Station, Freetown, brought together key stakeholders, regulators, and employees to promote a culture of accountability and ethical business conduct.

Delivering the keynote address, Chief Commercial Officer, Madam Haffie Haffner, highlighted the importance of embedding compliance into all aspects of corporate operations. She outlined the key pillars of Orange’s Compliance and Ethics Program, including a Code of Conduct, risk assessments, employee training, whistleblowing mechanisms, and continuous oversight by the Compliance Committee.

“Ethical behavior must be the cornerstone of every employee’s daily operation,” Madam Haffner stated, reiterating the company’s zero-tolerance policy toward corruption, bribery, and misconduct.

The first day also featured a lively compliance quiz competition, with Mohamed Turay emerging as the winner and Mr. Alpha Sesay placing second.

Day Two, moderated by Alfie Barrie, featured interactive sessions, leadership reflections, and a spirited staff debate. Opening the session, Orange Sierra Leone’s CEO, Mr. Sheku Momodu Bah, emphasized that effective compliance begins with leadership.

“There must be zero tolerance for corruption, and as leaders, we must set the tone. Compliance is not only for staff—it starts with management,” Bah asserted.

He revealed that Orange Sierra Leone currently ranks 5th out of 17 companies in compliance performance across the Orange Group, calling on employees to strive for 100% adherence to company policies.

“Compliance should not just be a policy—it should be a culture and a behavior,” he added.

The day’s highlight was a debate competition themed “Can Compliance Culture Exist Without Top Management’s Active Involvement?”

Two teams of employees passionately defended their positions before a panel of judges. Team B, arguing that compliance cannot thrive without top-level participation, won with 370 points, edging out Team A, which scored 340 points.

Prizes of Le 5,000 and Le 3,000 New Leones were awarded to the winning and runner-up teams, respectively.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks from moderator Barrie, who commended participants for their enthusiasm and professionalism.

Orange Sierra Leone continues to set industry standards for ethical leadership and governance, reinforcing its dedication to maintaining a compliance-driven corporate culture that aligns with global best practices.