Ghana’s Internal Audit Agency has wrapped up its Annual Internal Audit Conference, highlighting the evolving role of auditors in strengthening democratic governance and accountability in the West African nation.
The two-day event, held at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), brought together key figures from Ghana’s public sector audit community, reflecting the country’s growing emphasis on financial oversight.
Ghana’s audit landscape has undergone significant changes in recent years, with the Internal Audit Agency Act of 2003 establishing a framework for internal auditing in the public sector.
This conference, under the theme “Consolidating Democratic Governance and Accountability; Role of Internal Auditors”, aimed to build on these foundations and chart a course for improving public sector audit performance.
Recent data presented at the conference underscored the critical impact of internal auditing on public finances.
The 2023 Auditor-General’s report revealed that vigilant internal auditors had prevented financial irregularities amounting to 5.4bn Ghanaian cedis (£356m), a figure that highlights the importance of robust auditing practices in safeguarding public resources.
The event addressed challenges facing Ghana’s audit sector, including the need for increased digitisation, continuous professional development, and stronger collaboration between internal auditors and other oversight bodies.
The Conference, drawing over 2,000 attendees, including heads of public institutions and audit committees, discussed strategies to further strengthen the role of internal auditing in Ghana’s governance structure.
Key topics included enhancing audit independence, improving risk management practices, and leveraging technology for more efficient audits.
The conference culminated in an awards ceremony recognising outstanding contributions to the field. Mr. Emmanuel Paul Owusu, Internal Auditor for the University of Cape Coast, received the top award for his exemplary work, setting a benchmark for excellence in public sector auditing.
Ghana’s commitment to improving its audit practices aligns with broader efforts across Africa to enhance public financial management. The country’s progress in this area has been noted by international organisations, with the World Bank and IMF praising recent reforms in public financial accountability.
The successful conclusion of the conference underscores Ghana’s ongoing commitment to fostering transparency and accountability in its public sector operations, positioning internal auditors as key players in the nation’s democratic and economic development.
