By Mbongeni Ndlela
UGANDA – Eswatini has taken a prominent role in the Second Public Finance Management Conference for Africa, with a strong delegation comprising accountants, auditors, parliamentarians, and the Deputy Speaker.
Their participation highlights the country’s commitment to strengthening financial governance and accountability across the public sector.
The conference, hosted by the Pan African Federation of Accountants in collaboration with the African Union, runs from February 17 to 21, 2025, in Kampala, Uganda. Among those representing Eswatini are members of the Public Accounts Committee, the Office of the Auditor General, the Accountant General’s Office, and key parliamentary figures, including the Deputy Speaker Madala Mhlanga.
Addressing delegates, Uganda’s Minister of Finance, Henry Musasizi, emphasized that illicit financial flows, corruption, and inefficiencies in budget execution remain major obstacles to effective service delivery across Africa. He stressed that these issues drain vital resources needed for the continent’s development.
The conference has attracted key stakeholders such as the African Development Bank, Auditors General, Accountants General, the International and African Organisations of Supreme Audit Institutions, the Africa Continental Free Trade Area, and the International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board.
Key topics under discussion include strengthening public sector accounting, enhancing collaborations between supreme audit institutions and public sector accountants, and developing robust strategies to combat corruption and economic crimes.
Eswatini’s delegation is actively engaging in these crucial discussions, reflecting the country’s dedication to improving financial management practices and ensuring the efficient use of public funds. Their involvement is expected to bolster national efforts toward greater transparency and accountability in governance.
As the conference progresses, Eswatini’s representatives are keen on learning best practices and forming strategic collaborations to drive sustainable financial development at home. Their presence underscores the nation’s unwavering commitment to fostering integrity and efficiency in financial management.