About

Approximately $143.27 billion has been appropriated for Afghanistan relief and reconstruction since 2002. These funds are used to build the Afghan National Security Forces, promote good governance, conduct development assistance, and engage in counter-narcotics and anti-corruption efforts.

Congress created the Office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) to provide independent and objective oversight of Afghanistan reconstruction projects and activities.

SIGAR’s oversight mission, as defined by the Section(s) 1229 (and 842) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 (P.L. 110-181), is to provide independent and objective:

  • Audits and investigations relating to programs and operations supported with U.S. reconstruction dollars.
  • Recommendations to promote economy, efficiency, and effectiveness.
  • Leadership on policies to prevent and detect waste, fraud, and abuse.
  • Communication with the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Defense to keep them informed about: 1) problems and deficiencies relating to the reconstruction, 2) the need for corrective actions, and 3) progress on implementing corrective actions.

P.L. 110-181 also directs SIGAR to submit a Quarterly Report to Congress. This congressionally mandated report summarizes SIGAR’s audits and investigative activities. The report provides an overview of reconstruction activities in Afghanistan and includes a detailed statement of all obligations, expenditures, and revenues associated with reconstruction.

John F. Sopko was sworn in as Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction on October 2, 2012. SIGAR is headquartered in Arlington, VA.

SIGAR mission, vision, and values.

Mission

Conduct independent, objective, and strategic audits, inspections, investigations, and analysis in a transparent manner for the Congress and the American taxpayer to promote economy and efficiency, and to detect and deter waste, fraud, and abuse in the reconstruction of Afghanistan.

Vision

To improve U.S.-funded reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan and safeguard U.S. taxpayers’ money.

Values

The following core values will guide SIGAR’s employees as they oversee the U.S.-funded reconstruction effort:

  • Independence: In all matters, SIGAR will maintain its objectivity and vigorously protect its independence.
  • Accountability: SIGAR will hold itself and other agencies to the highest personal, professional, and ethical standards to ensure the trust of U.S. agencies and departments, Congress, and the American public.
  • Tenacity: SIGAR will seek to ensure that its work is of unparalleled quality, impact, timeliness, and transparency.
  • Fairness: SIGAR will treat individuals, agencies, and the public fairly, without prejudice.