Auditors warned that the failure to pay statutory deductions carries serious financial implications and exposes the institution to additional costs and risks.
“Recommendation: management to ensure that payment due to social security and GRA on monthly basis should be paid on or before the 15th of every month in order to avoid balance interest,” the report stated.
In response, chairperson of Gamtel/Gamcel Mr. Salieu A. Jack, on behalf of management acknowledged the recommendation and assured the committee of its commitment to addressing the issue through engagement with relevant stakeholders.
“Management remains committed to implementing this issue to comply and proactive approaches to avoid penalties,” he said.
The audit further pointed to procurement lapses within Gamtel and Gamcel, citing missing supporting documents that weaken internal controls and increase the risk of unauthorised transactions.
Auditors recommended stricter compliance measures to ensure accountability in procurement processes. “Management should ensure that all transactions in the system are well supported by relevant company and tagged by the supporting documents,” the report advised.
In their response, Gamtel and Gamcel management pledged to take corrective action.
“Management response promised to notice this act will be addressed it with utmost care. Purchase is conduct in wholesale directly from the supplier,” he stated.
Mr Jack revealed that Gamtel recorded revenue of D450.3 million in 2022, a significant increase from D356 million generated in 2019. The figures, he said, reflect improved revenue performance by the institution.
He added that despite operational and restructuring challenges, the institution made notable progress, registering increased financial generation for the year under review. Management, he said, remains committed to protecting the country’s telecommunications infrastructure while strengthening governance systems.
“The board has taken precise measures including financial payment action, engagement of private sector partners and implementation of its social plan to restore sustainability and cooperation,” he stated.
