The African Professionalization Initiative Ignited Public Finance Transformation Discussions at the AFROSAI-E Annual Board Strategy Review Meeting in Seychelles from 19-23 May 2025

VICTORIA, SEYCHELLES – The African Professionalisation Initiative (API) is proud to announce significant strides in its mission to revolutionize public finance across the continent, following key engagements at the AFROSAI-E Governing Board Meeting and Strategic Review held in Seychelles from May 19th to 23rd, 2025. This pivotal gathering served as a powerful platform for API to reinforce its commitment to fostering accountability, transparency, and good financial governance through the professionalization of public sector accountants.Join API Professionalisation Now: and Become a Professional Public Sector Accountant!

The API staff, in attendance at the AFROSAI-E Board Meeting (Evans Mulera, CEO and Neo Hlatshwayo, Technical Director), seized the invaluable opportunity to engage directly with Auditors General from across the AFROSAI-E region. These crucial discussions revealed a strong and encouraging interest from numerous supreme audit institutions in advancing the professionalization of their staff. Auditors General expressed keen enthusiasm for the API’s programs, recognizing the imperative to equip their teams with the highest levels of competency and ethical standards to navigate the complexities of modern public finance.

This burgeoning interest directly aligns with the API’s overarching vision: to realize an African public sector sustainably capacitated with competent, ethical, and influential professionals who support accountability, transparency, and good financial governance. The API’s strategic approach with foresight, anticipates the evolving needs of African governments, offering a definitive solution to long-standing challenges in public financial management.

The Professional Public Sector Accountant (PPSA): A Continental Game-Changer

The PPSA matters because it:

A Historic Milestone: The First PPSA Graduates in Liberia

A Strategic Call to Action for African Governments

Call To Action

About The API

The API Partner Organisations

API is not a PAO

Houses (Learning Programmes)	Careers / Jobs for API Graduates
House 1 – Incumbents (Experienced un-professionalised accountants and auditors) – Register for Public Sector Professionalisation for Career Success	Government Accountant Budget Analyst Financial controller Government Auditor Tax examiner Public Financial Management Consultant Non-profit Accountant Financial Analyst Grants and Contracts Manager Compliance Officer Public Sector Financial Reporting Specialist Sector specific accountants, auditors, advisors e.t.c.
House 2 – Specialisation – Ready for occupation from 2024
House 3 – Students – Ready for occupation in 2025
House 4 – Micro credentials – Unique Areas of need by governments: E.g. The Public Sector Ethics Certification that is available for all government accountants, auditors and other officers etc.
House 5 – Continuing Professional Development (CPD) – Register for Public Sector CPD Events – Get 12 Hours of Excellence in 12 Months
House 6 – Sector specific learning programmes or certifications or Micro credentials e.g. Learning Programme on performance audits for health sector commodities.
House 7 – PFM and AI Consulting Services: We empower the public sector and governments with cutting-edge knowledge and skills. We offer specialized consulting and in-house training designed to help you harness value in areas of your needs. Available currently is the service focused on “Effective use of PFM and AI to drive service efficiency in the public sector”. Ready to accelerate your PFM strategic success? Ready to elevate your organization to new heights? Consult with us today to discover the future of public service!	Benefits to Governments Enhanced PFM Decision-Making Increased PFM Operational Efficiency Improved Public Services Strengthened PFM Compliance and Security
House 8 – API Professional Alumni Network Visionary Circle – USD 29 Annual Subscription For those ready to lead Africa’s financial future. Must be an API Graduate Must be a member of a recognised Professional Accountancy Organisation (PAO) Get 15% Discount for joining through a PAO Pioneers Network – USD 49 Annual Subscription For trailblazers driving financial transformation in underserved regions. Must be an API Graduate From a country without a PAO, or From a country with a PAO that lacks public sector membership	Exclusive alumni benefits Free access to quarterly CPD events to keep you ahead of industry trends Free API Newsletter delivering insights, updates, and opportunities Free Annual PFM Conference—where leaders meet to shape Africa’s future Free Training on Artificial Intelligence Engage in the PFM Discussion Forum, sharing ideas with pioneers and experts Join the API Ambassador Program to elevate your influence and impact for Free Be part of the elite API Network, connecting you with Africa’s brightest financial minds

During the ceremony, the Auditor General of Eritrea highlighted the critical need for continuous professional training for public sector managers, especially those involved in public financial management. The partnership with API is expected to accelerate the professionalisation of public sector accountants and auditors in Eritrea, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their duties effectively and uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethics.

The Minister of Finance and National Development of Eritrea emphasized the importance of this programme in enhancing the overall effectiveness and efficiency of public financial management in the country. He expressed his gratitude for the strong support and commitment of the Ministry and the Office of the Auditor General, which were instrumental in making this programme a reality​.

API CEO Evans Mulera and other senior staff underscored the transformative potential of this partnership, noting that professionalising public sector accountants and auditors is crucial for achieving accountability, transparency, and good financial governance in Africa. The API’s accelerated learning programme will provide a comprehensive training package for public servants in financial management roles.

This initiative represents a vital step towards improving financial governance and service delivery in Eritrea, ultimately contributing to the socio-economic development of the country. By ensuring that public sector professionals are well-trained and certified, the programme aims to enhance the capacity and capability of Eritrea’s public financial management system.

The MoU signing ceremony is a testament to the collaborative spirit between API and the State of Eritrea, and it sets a precedent for similar partnerships across the African continent. The event concluded with expressions of appreciation to all partners and stakeholders who contributed to the success of this significant milestone.

We look forward to the positive impact this partnership will have on the professional development of public sector accountants and auditors in Eritrea, paving the way for a more accountable and transparent public sector in the country.

The African Professionalisation Initiative is an independent non-profit organisation whose primary objective is to strengthen the capacity and knowledge base of accounting and auditing professionals in the African public sector to enhance accounting and auditing service delivery to the citizens of Africa.

Our Vision: An African public sector sustainably capacitated with competent, ethical and influential professionals who support accountability, transparency and good financial governance. Our Mission: Grow the capacity of public sector finance management professionals in the African public sector through high quality, relevant and future fit learning programmes.

The API Partner Organisations

The African Professionalisation Initiative is a partnership between the accountancy profession (represented by the Pan African Federation of Accountants (“PAFA”)), accountants general or their equivalent (African Association of Accountants General – “AAAG”)), and supreme audit institutions or courts of auditors (represented by the English (“AFROSAI-E”) and French (“CREFIAF”) language sub-groups of the African Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (“AFROSAI”)).

API is not a PAO

The African Professionalisation Initiative (API) operates not as a Professional Accountancy Organisation (PAO), but as a facilitator and catalyst for the professionalisation of public sector accountants and auditors. This critical role accelerates accountability and transparency within the public sector. Consequently, it increases the number of professional accountants eligible for membership in national PAOs, thereby enhancing their effectiveness. This growth strengthens the accountancy profession at the national level through the Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA) on the continental level, and with the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) on the international level.

The API Houses / Learning Programmes

Embark on a flexible learning journey where you can study offline and seamlessly update your progress once you reconnect to the internet. This comprehensive programme, designed to fit your schedule, typically takes 12 to 18 months to complete. Dive into a transformative educational experience that empowers you to achieve your professional goals at your own pace, anywhere and anytime.

Please choose below the house that works for you and drop us a mail – info@professionalisation.africa

Houses (Learning Programmes)	Careers / Jobs for API Graduates
House 1 – Incumbents (Experienced un-professionalised accountants and auditors)-Implemented	Government Accountant Budget Analyst Financial controller Government Auditor Tax examiner Public Financial Management Consultant Non-profit Accountant Financial Analyst Grants and Contracts Manager Compliance Officer Public Sector Financial Reporting Specialist Sector specific accountants, auditors, advisors e.t.c.
House 2 – Specialisation – Ready for occupation from 2024
House 3 – Students – Ready for occupation in 2025
House 4 – Micro credentials – Unique Areas of need by governments: E.g. The Public Sector Ethics Certification that is available for all government accountants, auditors and other officers etc.
House 5 – Continuing Professional Development (CPD) – Book an event here
House 6 – Sector specific learning programmes or certifications or Micro credentials e.g. Learning Programme on performance audits for health sector commodities.

Introduction

The African Professionalisation Initiative (API) has undertaken a mission to transform the public sector in Africa by developing competent, ethical, and influential professionals dedicated to fostering accountability, transparency, and good financial governance. A recent API-USAID stakeholder consultation and engagement event in Zimbabwe, held from May 13 to 15, 2024, underscored this commitment. This report summarizes the key outcomes of the country visit and the strategies API is implementing to achieve its vision. The backbone of this country visit is the MOU signed recently between AFROSAI-E, USAID and API to advance shared PFM strengthening interventions.

IFAC MOU Partners

This initiative paves the way for a comprehensive joint engagement involving IFAC, PAFA, GAVI, Global Fund, USAID, and API, with initial pilot initiatives set to roll out in select countries. The expansion of these interventions will be driven by country interest and funding availability, promising a concerted effort to drive positive change and ensure accountability within the public health sector. As stakeholders unite under this collaborative framework, the stage is set to drive meaningful impact and usher in a new era of accountability in public health.

Objective of the Country Visit

The purpose of the visit was to engage with key API stakeholders and gather their insights for the development of the learning programme on performance audits for health sector commodities. The API team held meetings with various stakeholders in Zimbabwe, including the regulator of the accountancy profession, PAAB; the Auditor General; the Accountant General; CEOs of Professional Accountancy Organizations such as CGAIZ and ICAZ; health sector NGOs; private sector tuition providers; and government training institutes like MTB. Additionally, the visit served as an opportunity for the API to conduct an induction session for the inaugural group of participants in the API incumbents Professionalisation programme in Zimbabwe.

API’s Vision and Mission

API’s vision is “An African public sector sustainably capacitated with competent, ethical and influential professionals who support accountability, transparency and good financial governance”. Our mission is “to grow the capacity of public sector finance management professionals in the African public sector through high quality, relevant and future fit learning programmes”

Highlights from the Zimbabwe Engagements

Broad Support for Learning Programmes: Stakeholders strongly endorsed the Performance Audits (PA) for Health Sector Commodities Learning Programme. This initiative is praised for its role in enhancing the effectiveness and scope of funding interventions, with a notable commendation for USAID’s role in initiating and supporting this innovative educational effort.

Expanding the Scope of Audits: There was a consensus on the need to expand the (PA) learning programme to include governance audits, which would tackle both compliance and administrative challenges across more sectors. Stakeholders showed a willingness to support measures that integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles to bolster governance and environmental efforts.

Practical and Inclusive Learning Approaches: The engagement emphasized practical learning through real-world case studies and competency-based education. It highlighted the importance of including diverse groups within the learning cohorts and tailoring content to both audit and non-audit staff to ensure comprehensive understanding and preparation for audits.

Digital and Accessible Learning: The programme’s digital delivery mode was outlined, enabling flexible, anytime-anywhere learning. This approach not only facilitates broad participation but also ensures that learning is continuous and assessed through competency badges and exit assessments.

Policy Integration and Professional Ethics: The inclusion in the learning programme topics on performance audits of donor and government policies related to ethics, anti-money laundering, anti-corruption, gender equality, and more was identified as crucial. These components are essential for enhancing the effectiveness of health sector initiatives.

No Exemptions to Ensure Quality: To maintain high standards among graduates, the programme does not allow exemptions. This policy ensures that all participants meet the same rigorous criteria, which is vital for the integrity and impact of the training.

Funding and Support Needs: There was a significant call for increased sponsorship and funding, particularly from organizations like USAID, to support the Professionalisation of learners within various government and non-government sectors in Zimbabwe.

Clear Target Audience and Entry Requirements: The programme is specifically designed for a broad audience including SAI staff, audit firms, internal auditors, and health sector professionals. This ensures that the training is relevant and accessible to those who can most benefit from it.

Complementary Role with AFROSAI-E: API’s initiatives are designed to complement existing AFROSAI-E trainings, focusing on practical implementation and competency-based education that culminates in the issuance of recognizable certificates.

Enhancing Capacity

The API country visit in Zimbabwe is a testament to the initiative’s dedication to enhancing the capacity and capabilities of public sector professionals across Africa. By fostering an environment of comprehensive, practical, and ethical training, API not only contributes to individual professional growth but also to the broader goal of improved public sector governance and accountability. The continued collaboration with stakeholders and partners like USAID will be crucial in advancing these objectives and ensuring sustainable impact.

About The API

The African Professionalisation Initiative is an independent non-profit organisation whose primary objective is to strengthen the capacity and knowledge base of accounting and auditing professionals in the African public sector to enhance accounting and auditing service delivery to the citizens of Africa.

Our Vision: An African public sector sustainably capacitated with competent, ethical and influential professionals who support accountability, transparency and good financial governance.

Our Mission: Grow the capacity of public sector finance management professionals in the African public sector through high quality, relevant and future fit learning programmes.

About The API

The African Professionalisation Initiative is a partnership between the accountancy profession (represented by the Pan African Federation of Accountants (“PAFA”)), accountants general or their equivalent (African Association of Accountants General – “AAAG”)), and supreme audit institutions or courts of auditors (represented by the English (“AFROSAI-E”) and French (“CREFIAF”) language sub-groups of the African Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (“AFROSAI”)).

API is not a PAO

API is not a PAO but rather an enabler or a catalyst for professionalisation of public sector accountants and auditors to realise acceleration of greater accountability and transparency in the public sector. This will lead to growth or increase in the number of professional accountants eligible for membership in country PAOs thus making those PAOs more effective in delivering value to governments through a stronger accountancy profession within the country, continentally (through PAFA) and at the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) level.

The API Houses / Learning Programmes

You can learn offline and update your records the next time you have access to the internet.  Learning takes 12 to 18 months to complete.

Please choose below the house that works for you and drop us a mail – info@professionalisation.africa

Houses (Learning Programmes)	Careers / Jobs for API Graduates
House 1 – Incumbents (Experienced un-professionalised accountants and auditors)-Implemented	Government Accountant Budget Analyst Financial controller Government Auditor Tax examiner Public Financial Management Consultant Non-profit Accountant Financial Analyst Grants and Contracts Manager Compliance Officer Public Sector Financial Reporting Specialist Sector specific accountants, auditors, advisors e.t.c.
House 2 – Specialisation – Ready for occupation from 2024
House 3 – Students – Ready for occupation in 2025
House 4 – Micro credentials – Unique Areas of need by governments: E.g. The Public Sector Ethics Certification that is available for all government accountants, auditors and other officers etc.
House 5 – Continuing Professional Development (CPD) – Book an event here
House 6 – Sector specific learning programmes or certifications or Micro credentials e.g. Learning Programme on performance audits for health sector commodities.

Visionary Support for PFM Excellence

SIDA’s funding commitment aligns with its broader agenda of reducing poverty and promoting sustainable development globally. The agency engages with various partners, including governments, private sector entities, and civil society organizations, across approximately 35 countries spanning Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Europe. The collaboration with API is a testament to SIDA’s commitment to fostering good governance and financial accountability—a cornerstone for sustainable development.

Under the banner of this partnership, API has articulated a clear vision: An African public sector sustainably capacitated with competent, ethical, and influential professionals who support accountability, transparency, and good financial governance. The milestones achieved through SIDA’s support during API’s strategic plans for 2021-2023 and 2024-2026 illustrate a trajectory of significant progress and innovation.

Milestones of Transformation

The collaboration has yielded substantial outcomes in several key areas:

Learning and Development

API has successfully completed and digitized its incumbents’ learning programme and made significant headway in its specialization programmes. The initiation of French translation and contextual adaptations of programmes with help from IFAC, PAFA, GAVI and the Global Fund; addresses the Francophone countries’ linguistic and cultural needs, thus enhancing accessibility and relevance. The African Development Bank has contributed to the development of country-unique content and country baseline studies in addition to the designation of country coordinators to support successful implementation. of The Online Learning Platform has been regularly updated and maintained to ensure a consistent and effective learning experience.

Country Implementation

The API’s country engagement has expanded through MOUs with Zimbabwe, Botswana, Liberia, Burkina Faso, and Gambia, laying the groundwork for country-specific programme rollouts. The development of clear guidelines and tools supports these initiatives, ensuring that each country implementation is tailored and effective.

Brand Awareness and Visibility

API’s strategic communications efforts have expanded its LinkedIn followership from 100 to over 6,500 since 2021, significantly boosting its digital presence and engagement. The publication of high-quality articles and quarterly newsletters has been crucial in communicating API’s impact and vision to a broader audience.

Sustainability Initiatives

Strategic recruitment and robust funding models are in place to ensure API’s operational longevity and impact. Additional support from other donors, including the African Development Bank and various international partners such as: International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) and PAFA MOU partners – GAVI, The Global Fund, USAID, underscores the broad-based endorsement and trust in API’s mission.

Looking Forward

As API continues to forge ahead under its new strategic plan for 2024-2026, SIDA’s support remains a catalyst for ongoing innovation and excellence in public financial management in Africa. The enduring partnership not only reflects SIDA’s commitment to fostering good governance globally but also API’s pivotal role in transforming PFM practices to achieve enduring economic stability and growth across African nations.

Through these concerted efforts, SIDA and API are setting new benchmarks in public financial management, creating a scalable model of governance excellence that promises to inspire and replicate across the developing world, driving towards a future where good governance is a universal norm.

About The API

The African Professionalisation Initiative is an independent non-profit organisation whose primary objective is to strengthen the capacity and knowledge base of accounting and auditing professionals in the African public sector to enhance accounting and auditing service delivery to the citizens of Africa.

Our Vision: An African public sector sustainably capacitated with competent, ethical and influential professionals who support accountability, transparency and good financial governance.

Our Mission: Grow the capacity of public sector finance management professionals in the African public sector through high-quality, relevant and future-fit learning programmes.

The API Partner Organisations

The African Professionalisation Initiative is a partnership between the accountancy profession (represented by the Pan African Federation of Accountants (“PAFA”)), accountants general or their equivalent (African Association of Accountants General – “AAAG”)), and supreme audit institutions or courts of auditors (represented by the English (“AFROSAI-E”) and French (“CREFIAF”) language sub-groups of the African Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (“AFROSAI”)).

The API is not a PAO

The API is not a PAO but rather an enabler or a catalyst for the professionalisation of public sector accountants and auditors to realise acceleration of greater accountability and transparency in the public sector. This will lead to growth or increase in the number of professional accountants eligible for membership in country PAOs thus making those PAOs more effective in delivering value to governments through a stronger accountancy profession within the country, continentally (through PAFA) and at the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) level.

The API Houses / Learning Programmes

You can learn offline and update your records the next time you have access to the internet.  Learning takes 12 to 18 months to complete.

Please choose below the house that works for you and drop us a mail – info@professionalisation.africa

Houses (Learning Programmes)	Careers / Jobs for API Graduates
House 1 – Incumbents (Experienced un-professionalised accountants and auditors)-Implemented	Government Accountant Budget Analyst Financial controller Government Auditor Tax examiner Public Financial Management Consultant Non-profit Accountant Financial Analyst Grants and Contracts Manager Compliance Officer Public Sector Financial Reporting Specialist Sector specific accountants, auditors, advisors e.t.c.
House 2 – Specialisation – Ready for occupation from 2024
House 3 – Students – Ready for occupation in 2025
House 4 – Micro credentials – Unique Areas of need by governments: E.g. The Public Sector Ethics Certification that is available for all government accountants, auditors and other officers etc.
House 5 – Continuing Professional Development (CPD) – Book an event here
House 6 – Sector specific learning programmes or certifications or Micro credentials e.g. Learning Programme on performance audits for health sector commodities.

IFAC MOU Partners

This initiative paves the way for a comprehensive joint engagement involving IFAC, PAFA, GAVI, Global Fund, USAID, and API, with initial pilot initiatives set to roll out in select countries. The expansion of these interventions will be driven by country interest and funding availability, promising a concerted effort to drive positive change and ensure accountability within the public health sector. As stakeholders unite under this collaborative framework, the stage is set to drive meaningful impact and usher in a new era of accountability in public health.

Engaging Stakeholders for Enriched Learning

The visit to Botswana was marked by in-depth discussions with local stakeholders, aimed at shaping a robust framework for the learning programmeme. Key outcomes from these interactions included:

• Inclusivity in Learning:The programme will extend beyond Supreme Audit Institution (SAI) affiliates to include consultancy firms and non-SAI participants, thus broadening the scope and impact of the initiative.
• Customized Learning Paths: Participants may be exempt from modules they are already proficient in, thanks to a vetting process facilitated by the University of Botswana and BICA, ensuring a tailored educational experience.
• Curriculum Adaptation: To cater to individuals transitioning from non-audit roles, the curriculum will integrate introductory auditing courses, accommodating diverse educational backgrounds.
• Affordability: Addressing concerns about potential fees, stakeholders were reassured of the programme’s financial accessibility, with no substantial subscription fees imposed.
• Expanded Scope: Suggestions were made to broaden the programme’s focus to include all facets of health sector service delivery, enhancing its relevance and practical utility in Botswana and beyond.

Practical and Accessible Delivery

The programme is set to be delivered online, maximizing accessibility and enabling participation from a wider audience. This approach ensures that the learning is not only theoretical but grounded in real-world applications, making it directly beneficial to day-to-day operations in health sector audits.

Forward Movements

The University of Botswana, the consultancy selected to develop the learning programme, is diligently progressing the design and drafting of the learning programme using a relevant competency framework that will inform the programme’s content and structure. The competency framework received input through a survey among Auditors General staff; AFROSAI-E Performance auditors’ contribution; and feedback from the workshop held at the University of Botswana on the 18^th of April 2024. A pilot phase involving selected learners from SAIs will soon follow, paving the way for a comprehensive rollout supported by the Professional Accountancy Organizations (PAO) and other Lead Learning Partners such as colleges and Universities.

Stakeholder Driven Success

The active participation and feedback from stakeholders during this visit have been instrumental in refining the learning programme. Their contributions are invaluable, ensuring that the programme not only meets educational standards but also addresses the practical needs of the health sector’s audit professionals. The following stakeholders in Botswana took part in the engagements:

• Auditor General of Botswana;
• Botswana Institute of Chartered Accountants;
• Accountant General of Botswana;
• Botswana Accountancy Oversight Authority;
• University of Botswana;
• USAID;
• Human Resource Development Council of Botswana;
• GHSC-Chemonics;
• Baisago University; and
• UNICEF

Participating Countries

The collaborative efforts of API, USAID, and Botswana’s stakeholders highlight a shared commitment to enhancing the integrity and efficiency of health sector audits. This programme promises to be a significant step forward in reducing corruption and theft within the sector, ultimately supporting better governance and service delivery across public sectors. Similar stakeholder engagements will proceed in Zimbabwe, Liberia and Namibia and the feedback received will be incorporated in the final learning programme before its official rollout later this year across all interested African countries.

About The API

The African Professionalisation Initiative is an independent non-profit organisation whose primary objective is to strengthen the capacity and knowledge base of accounting and auditing professionals in the African public sector to enhance accounting and auditing service delivery to the citizens of Africa.

Our Vision: An African public sector sustainably capacitated with competent, ethical and influential professionals who support accountability, transparency and good financial governance. Our Mission: Grow the capacity of public sector finance management professionals in the African public sector through high quality, relevant and future fit learning programmes.

The API Partner Organisations

The African Professionalisation Initiative is a partnership between the accountancy profession (represented by the Pan African Federation of Accountants (“PAFA”)), accountants general or their equivalent (African Association of Accountants General – “AAAG”)), and supreme audit institutions or courts of auditors (represented by the English (“AFROSAI-E”) and French (“CREFIAF”) language sub-groups of the African Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (“AFROSAI”)).

API is not a PAO

API is not a PAO but rather an enabler or a catalyst for professionalisation of public sector accountants and auditors to realise acceleration of greater accountability and transparency in the public sector. This will lead to growth or increase in the number of professional accountants eligible for membership in country PAOs thus making those PAOs more effective in delivering value to governments through a stronger accountancy profession within the country, continentally (through PAFA) and at the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) level.

The API Houses / Learning Programmes

You can learn offline and update your records the next time you have access to the internet.  Learning takes 12 to 18 months to complete.

Please choose below the house that works for you and drop us a mail – info@professionalisation.africa  

Distinguished Witnesses to the Historic Agreement

The signing ceremony was graced by notable figures including Ruth Mutebe, President of AFIIA; Moses Kasakya, President of IA Uganda; representatives from global health partnerships such as GAVI’s Charles Ohene and The Global Fund’s Eric Boa and Collins Acheampong, alongside API’s CEO, Evans Mulera. Their presence underscores the collective commitment to driving substantial reforms in the public sector’s financial management practices.

IFAC MOU Partners

Gavi and The Global Fund are partners in the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) partnership  MOU that aims to achieve strengthened Public Finance Management capacity for the public sector through Professional Accountancy Organizations as well as Health sector investments. This agreement between API and AFIIA will contribute to deepening of the ongoing engagement involving IFAC, PAFA, GAVI, Global Fund, USAID, and API, with initial pilot initiatives set to roll out in select countries. USAID has recently signed an MOU with AFROSAI-E and API to support capacity building through development of a learning programme on performance audits of health sector commodities and related services. The success of these initiatives will be driven by country interest and funding availability, promising a concerted effort to drive positive change and ensure accountability within the public sector.

Visionary Outcomes of the Collaboration

The collaboration between API and AFIIA is designed to achieve transformative outcomes that will significantly enhance the public sector’s operational efficacy and ethical standards. Among the expected outcomes are:

• A significant increase in the number of competent and ethical internal audit professionals within the public sector.
• Strengthened frameworks for accountability and transparency that align with global financial governance standards such as IPPF, IFRS, IPSAS, and ISSAI.
• Accelerated socio-economic development through successful implementation of public finance management reforms.
• Heightened adherence to governmental finance laws and policies.
• Contribution to the realization of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the principles of the African Charter on values and principles of public service and administration, which advocate for professionalization within governmental ranks.
• Establishment of a skilled pool of public sector professionals that will facilitate cross-border trade in services under the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (ACTFA) framework.
• An enhanced platform that promotes the professionalization of government internal auditors in alignment with the spirit of African unity, cooperation, and shared progress.

AFIIA’s Role and Commitments

During the ceremony, President Ruth Mutebe outlined AFIIA’s pivotal role in enhancing accountability and transparency across both public and private sectors. With affiliations in 27 countries and activities ranging from annual conferences to targeted capacity-building events, AFIIA is actively involved in shaping a more accountable and transparent governance framework throughout the continent.

The Future Path

The partnership also lays a robust groundwork for future initiatives aimed at reskilling and upskilling new talents within the internal audit in the public sector. Over 70% of AFIIA’s professional members, who currently serve in the public sector, are poised to play a crucial role in advancing public value across governmental entities. This strategic foresight is aimed at not only uplifting the standards of internal auditing but also ensuring that internal auditors are well-equipped to drive successful PFM reforms.

Donor Support and Sustainable Impact

The donors (GAVI and The Global Fund) present at the signing expressed unwavering support for the initiatives designed to elevate the role of internal auditors in achieving successful PFM reforms. This endorsement is a testament to the potential far-reaching impact of the API-AFIIA partnership on the continent’s financial management practices, ensuring a legacy of enhanced governance and increased public trust.

This partnership marks a new chapter in the story of African public financial management, promising a future where internal auditors are not just participants but catalysts of change, equipped to meet the challenges of a dynamic financial landscape with professionalism and integrity.

About The API

The African Professionalisation Initiative is an independent non-profit organisation whose primary objective is to strengthen the capacity and knowledge base of accounting and auditing professionals in the African public sector to enhance accounting and auditing service delivery to the citizens of Africa.

Our Vision: An African public sector sustainably capacitated with competent, ethical and influential professionals who support accountability, transparency and good financial governance. Our Mission: Grow the capacity of public sector finance management professionals in the African public sector through high quality, relevant and future fit learning programmes.

The API Partner Organisations

The African Professionalisation Initiative is a partnership between the accountancy profession (represented by the Pan African Federation of Accountants (“PAFA”)), accountants general or their equivalent (African Association of Accountants General – “AAAG”)), and supreme audit institutions or courts of auditors (represented by the English (“AFROSAI-E”) and French (“CREFIAF”) language sub-groups of the African Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (“AFROSAI”)).

API is not a PAO

API is not a PAO but rather an enabler or a catalyst for professionalisation of public sector accountants and auditors to realise acceleration of greater accountability and transparency in the public sector. This will lead to growth or increase in the number of professional accountants eligible for membership in country PAOs thus making those PAOs more effective in delivering value to governments through a stronger accountancy profession within the country, continentally (through PAFA) and at the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) level.

The API Houses/Learning Programmes

You can learn offline and update your records the next time you have access to the internet.  Learning takes 12 to 18 months to complete.

Please choose below the house that works for you and drop us a mail – info@professionalisation.africa  

Keynote Insights on Democracy and Accountability

The keynote address by the honorable Speaker emphasized the Supreme Audit Institutions’ (SAIs) essential role in upholding the pillars of democracy and safeguarding public trust. She outlined the critical nature of SAIs in today’s volatile world, highlighting their responsibility to ensure good stewardship of public resources. The Speaker reaffirmed the commitment of the Ugandan Parliament to support SAI Uganda, ensuring it receives the independence and support necessary to function effectively.

Driving Economic Development and PFM Reforms

Discussions also focused on the Ministry of Finance’s role in supporting economic development through robust public financial management (PFM) laws and the integration of technology to optimize budgeting processes. Such initiatives are crucial for realizing significant progress in PFM reforms, ultimately leading to enhanced efficiency, effective revenue collection, and national development.

Digital Transformation and Capacity Building

Meisie Nkau, the CEO of AFROSAI-E spotlighted AFROSAI-E’s efforts to assist SAIs in digitalizing their operations to free up resources for more value-added interventions. She encouraged SAIs to shape the Vision 2029 to transform lives directly through their work, emphasizing the importance of peer-to-peer collaboration and partnerships with donors and development partners. A notable acknowledgment was given to Helena Lindberg, the Auditor General of Sweden, for her substantial support in capacity-building initiatives that significantly impact AFROSAI-E’s mission.

Celebrating Excellence in Performance Auditing

The event also celebrated excellence in performance auditing, with Helena Lindberg announcing the winner of the 2023 performance audit prize. The accolade went to the Office of the Auditor General in Uganda for their report on “Equitable and Affordable Access to Education for Learners with Special Needs.” This recognition marked Uganda’s third win, demonstrating their continued excellence and commitment to impactful auditing.

A Unified Vision for a Prosperous Africa

The AFROSAI-E meeting was not just about reviewing strategies but also forging a path towards a more equitable, just, and prosperous society. It provided a platform for sharing ideas and best practices that would spearhead changes in auditing and governance to protect and enhance public interest across Africa.

As AFROSAI-E and its partners commit to the ambitious goals of Vision 2029, their concerted efforts are set to usher in an era of enhanced public sector accountability and governance, resonating with the African Union’s Agenda 2063. This pivotal meeting in Kampala was a step forward in realizing these aspirations, promising a brighter, more accountable future for Africa.

About The API

The African Professionalisation Initiative is an independent non-profit organisation whose primary objective is to strengthen the capacity and knowledge base of accounting and auditing professionals in the African public sector to enhance accounting and auditing service delivery to the citizens of Africa.

Our Vision: An African public sector sustainably capacitated with competent, ethical and influential professionals who support accountability, transparency and good financial governance.

Our Mission: Grow the capacity of public sector finance management professionals in the African public sector through high quality, relevant and future fit learning programmes.

The API Partner Organisations

The African Professionalisation Initiative is a partnership between the accountancy profession (represented by the Pan African Federation of Accountants (“PAFA”)), accountants general or their equivalent (African Association of Accountants General – “AAAG”)), and supreme audit institutions or courts of auditors (represented by the English (“AFROSAI-E”) and French (“CREFIAF”) language sub-groups of the African Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (“AFROSAI”)).

API is not a PAO

API is not a PAO but rather an enabler or a catalyst for professionalisation of public sector accountants and auditors to realise acceleration of greater accountability and transparency in the public sector. This will lead to growth or increase in the number of professional accountants eligible for membership in country PAOs thus making those PAOs more effective in delivering value to governments through a stronger accountancy profession within the country, continentally (through PAFA) and at the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) level.

The API Houses/Learning Programmes

You can learn offline and update your records the next time you have access to the internet.  Learning takes 12 to 18 months to complete.

Please choose below the house that works for you and drop us a mail – info@professionalisation.africa

Public Sector Ethics Certification Programme

Embark on a transformative journey towards ethical excellence in the public sector with the API Public Sector Ethics Certification Programme. Designed as a virtual learning oasis, this certification course is meticulously crafted to arm accountants, auditors, and all those engaged in public service with the indispensable knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to navigate the complex terrain of ethical obligations. As we stride towards realizing the bold aspirations of the African Union Agenda 2063, the clarion call for heightened accountability resonates louder than ever. In this era of heightened scrutiny from governments, development partners and donors, the imperative for transparency and integrity in governance has never been more pressing. Our Ethics Certification Programme stands as a beacon of timely intervention, championing the cause of the public interest and igniting a fervent pursuit of greater accountability. Join us in this noble endeavor, as we redefine the standards of ethical conduct and pave the way for a brighter, more responsible future.

Press Release Summary

April 15, Pretoria, South Africa,
Today, API announced the launch of the affordable (Only USD 100 per learner) Ethics Short Certification Course for public sector officers that accelerates good financial governance by ensuring all public sector Accountants, auditors and other officers have access to high quality learning about ethics and accountability.

Problem Statement

There exists a severe challenge of realising quality mainstreaming of ethics and accountability practices for different public sector cadres and many government audit reports disclose examples of unethical behaviour and practices in management of public resources, with some countries reporting cases indicating upwards of a third of the public budget unaccounted for; and it’s a challenge that needs redress partly, through the mainstreaming of ethical practices and principles through initiatives such as the Public Sector Ethics Certification programme.

The Solution

With the API Ethics and Accountability certification, participants (learners) will be equipped with practical lessons about the implications and role of ethics in their work and service to the public followed by a free practical virtual workshop to demonstrate how this creates benefits for citizens in the socio-economic value chain of every country.

Duration

Learners will complete the certification within a month. However, those who are busy will have an additional two months within which they can complete making it a total of three (3) months.

Competency Based

The Public Sector Ethics Certification is competency based in design, structure, delivery and assessment. The learning content is designed to address the essential competencies required by accountants, auditors and non-finance managers. These competencies are derived from an understanding of the learners’ work environments, relevant skill requirements, as well as considerations for future readiness and employability. The competency model is integrated into the online assessments to evaluate proficiency effectively. Development of the certification programme is guided by standards set forth by INTOSAI, AFROSAI, IFAC and the IFAC independent standards setting boards.

Getting Started

Getting started is easy – click on ‘Enrol Now’ button below. You can enrol a) directly or; b) enrol through your country Professional Accountancy Organisation (PAO) for countries where API has an MOU. Learners from the following should enrol through the respective country PAOs indicated the brackets below. For more information, please contact us by email:info@professionalisation.africa.

• Botswana ( BICA –  odube@bica.org.bw),
• Zimbabwe (CGAIZ – cgi@cgizim.org  or MTB – api@management.co.zw)
• Gambia (GICA – bakangmadijanko@gmail.com) and,
• Liberia(LICPA – licpa@licpa.org.lr)

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs) about Public Sector Ethics Certification Programme

The event was witnessed by the Minister of Public Service, Administrative Reforms, Policy Coordination and Delivery and other  senior officials from key national institutions as well as development partners.

Keynote Address

All participants at the signing ceremony

Presiding over the ceremony, the Hon Minister for Public Service, Administrative Reforms, Policy Coordination and Delivery, Hon Baboucarr Bouy articulated the significance of professionalising of government staff. He noted that, to achieve better outcomes through sustainable Public Finance Management (PFM) reforms, a key ingredient for success is the professionalisation of Finance, Accounting and Auditing staff in the Public Sector. He noted,

“There is need to rebalance so that focus is not just on investing in systems and processes but also on quality people because the competencies, skills, and judgement of professional accountants and auditors drive credibility and effectiveness of the PFM initiatives. There is also need to build PFM reforms into regulations and policy to achieve stability and predictability that gives investors confidence. The API will help to achieve the civil service impact agenda.”

Auditor General, Accountant General, GICA and API Remarks

The Auditor General of Gambia, Modou Ceesay has played a critical role in the mobilisation leading up-to the signing of the MOU to professionalise  the Gambian public sector, by providing both advice and resources to ensure success. He observed that professionalisation will improve the quality of the audit reports. It will also promote consistency and enhance uniformity thereby enabling comparability of audit recommendations across entities and sectors. Additionally, professionalisation will help to enhance the independence and credibility of SAI Auditors.

The Accountant General, Madam Agnes Macaulay is an ardent champion for professionalisation. Her office has been part of the engagements with the API and other stakeholders, leading up to the MoU signing ceremony. She highlighted that public sector professionalisation will help to address the current challenge where the few government accountants that have been professionalised have taken up employment away from government creating a recurring human resource challenge. She noted that Professionalisation will be a driver for the realisation of sustainable training and quality staffing of professionals within the public sector, thereby realising improved quality of service delivery for the citizens.

In his remarks, the GICA President Mr. Amadou Sanneh, applauded the API as an initiative that will drive socio economic transformation through enhanced accountability for public resources. He thanked the Government of Gambia for supporting professionalisation and pledged that GICA would work to ensure the initiative is a success. The GICA CEO, Baba Barrow noted that to realise the national development agenda of the Gambia, there is need to professionalise government staff thereby realising a critical mass of policy makers. He noted that realising an increase in the number of competent and ethical public sector professionals is essential to the realisation of good finance governance that will in turn fuel socio economic development.

The API CEO, Evans Mulera underscored the critical role public sector professionals will play in informing public finance fiscal strategy by using the “cause and effect” principle to demonstrate how public expenditure drives national productivity (The Gross National Product – Defined as the goods and services produced by citizens of a country at home and abroad).

Objective of the Agreement

The GICA President, Council, and Staff

The primary objective of the MoU is to professionalize government auditors and accountants in Gambia, with the aim of achieving greater accountability and transparency in the management of public funds. This initiative is expected to contribute to the national socio-economic development of the country.

By partnering with the African Professionalisation Initiative, The Gambia  aims to align its efforts with the African Union Agenda 2063 seven aspirations, as well as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Through the professionalization of government auditors and accountants, the country seeks to bolster its commitment to good governance, effective financial management, and sustainable development.

The signing of this MoU reflects the Gambia’s  dedication to enhancing the professional standards of its public financial management systems. It is a crucial step towards fostering trust and confidence in the management of public resources, thereby paving the way for sustainable socio-economic progress.

Hon Minister, Auditor General of Gambia and GICA CEO

This collaborative effort underscores the importance of building a cadre of highly skilled and ethical professionals who will play a pivotal role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and good governance within the public sector. The Gambia Institute of Chartered Accountants and the National Audit Office of Gambia are poised to work in tandem with the African Professionalisation Initiative to implement programs and initiatives aimed at upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity among government auditors and accountants.

The signing of this MoU marks a significant milestone in the journey towards achieving greater transparency and accountability in the Gambia’s public financial management. It is a testament to the country’s commitment to fostering a culture of professionalism and excellence within its public sector, ultimately contributing to sustainable national development.

About The API –  Our Purpose (Objective)

The API is an independent non-profit organisation whose primary objective is to strengthen the capacity and knowledge base of accounting and auditing professionals in the African public sector to enhance accounting and auditing service delivery to the citizens of Africa.

The API Vision and Mission

Our Vision: An African public sector capacitated with competent, ethical and influential professionals who support accountability, transparency and good financial governance. Our Mission: To grow the capacity of accountancy professionals in the African public sector for enhanced service delivery.

The API Houses / Learning Programmes

You can learn offline from anywhere from your mobile device and update your records the next time you have access to the internet, and complete within 12 to 18 months.

Please choose below what may work for you and drop us an email on info@professionalisation.africa

The API Partner Organisations

The API Learning Programmes aim to achieve the above institutional goal as a partnership between the accountancy profession (represented by the Pan African Federation of Accountants (“PAFA”)), accountants general or their equivalent (African Association of Accountants General – “AAAG”)), and supreme audit institutions or courts of auditors (represented by the English (“AFROSAI-E”) and French (“CREFIAF”) language sub-groups of the African Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (“AFROSAI”)).

Contact the API Team for more details: info@professionalisation.africa | www.professionalisation.africa

On 3 October 2023, an important webinar was held to address the pressing objective of professionalisation within Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) in the AFROSAI community. The event, organised by the Professionalisation Working Group of the Institutional and Technical Capacity Building Committee (ITCBC) of AFROSAI, in partnership with the Regional Forum of the Capacity Building Committee of INTOSAI, the webinar aimed to promote and support the professionalisation drive within SAIs. The event brought together experts, practitioners, and policymakers to discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with enhancing professionalism in SAIs.

Speakers participating at the SAI Professionalisation Webinar

Key Highlights

In her opening remarks, the Auditor General of South Africa Ms Tsakani Maluleke emphasized the critical role Professionalisation will play in equipping SAIs with the ideal capabilities to delivery on the public interest role of carrying out public sector audits. This will ensure effective and transparent public financial management and accountability. She highlighted the importance of professionalisation in SAIs, noting that a skilled and competent workforce is essential for the successful execution of audit functions. Professionalisation enhances the credibility and independence of SAIs, leading to improved public trust and confidence.

Sharing Best Practices

Speakers participating at the SAI Professionalisation Webinar

During the webinar, various speakers shared their experiences and best practices related to professionalisation. These insights encompassed areas, among others, such as: ISSAI 150 as a new and important INTOSAI audit standard focused on Auditor Competence; Guidance 1950 and Guidance 1951; Role of the Capacity Building Committee (CBC) and partner organisations in capacitating SAIs to overcome some of the challenges they face; The role of Professional Accountancy Organizations in Professionalisation; Cooperation between SAIs and professional accountancy organisations in Africa and other parts of the world; Importance of competent audit professionals in SAIs to the broader public sector; Forming strong partnerships to facilitate pathways towards greater professional capacity.

Collaboration and Partnerships

Participants recognised the need for collaboration, partnerships and networking among SAIs and key stakeholders to facilitate knowledge sharing and capacity building. The webinar provided a platform for SAIs to establish connections, share resources, and learn from each other’s experiences. The webinar highlighted existing and upcoming capacity building opportunities aimed at fostering professionalisation within SAIs. These opportunities encompassed training programmes, mentoring schemes, knowledge exchange platforms, and the development of professional certification frameworks.

Commitment to Professionalisation

The webinar concluded with a strong commitment from the participating SAIs, AFROSAI, and INTOSAI to continue promoting professionalisation within the SAIs of the AFROSAI community. This commitment included the development of comprehensive capacity building plans, the establishment of regional networks, and ongoing support from AFROSAI and INTOSAI.

The API’s Purpose (Objective)

The API is an independent non-profit organisation whose primary objective is to strengthen the capacity and knowledge base of accounting and auditing professionals in the African public sector to enhance accounting and auditing service delivery to the citizens of Africa.

The API Vision and Mission

Our Vision: An African public sector capacitated with competent, ethical and influential professionals who support accountability, transparency and good financial governance. Our Mission: To grow the capacity of accountancy professionals in the African public sector for enhanced service delivery.

The API Houses / Learning Programmes

Please choose below what may work for you and drop us an email on info@professionalisation.africa

The API Partner Organisations

The API Learning Programmes aim to achieve the above institutional goal as a partnership between the accountancy profession (represented by the Pan African Federation of Accountants (“PAFA”)), accountants general or their equivalent (African Association of Accountants General – “AAAG”)), and supreme audit institutions or courts of auditors (represented by the English (“AFROSAI-E”) and French (“CREFIAF”) language sub-groups of the African Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (“AFROSAI”)).

Contact the API Team for more details: info@professionalisation.africa | www.professionalisation.africa

Professionals are continually encouraged to commit to lifelong learning by relentlessly pursuing acquisition of knowledge and ideas that prepare and position them for long-term success. The API took part in the seventh (7^th) edition of the PAFA biannual conference – “Africa Congress of Accountants” that took place in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire from 15 to 18 May 2023. Themed “Structural transformation and growth of African economies”, the event was hosted by OECI-CI, (Cote d’Ivoire), a PAFA member. API engaged with numerous stakeholders, including representatives from professional accountancy organisations (PAOs); regional bodies; internationals organisations; donors and development partners.

PAFA’s Vision and Mission

PAFA’s vision is sustainable value creation to benefit the citizens of Africa, its mission is “to strengthen the capacity and influence of the accountancy profession in Africa in order to enhance trade, the quality of services, and trust in institutions”.

The ACOA 2023 provided a platform for PAFA to engage its stakeholders and communicate its plans and results achieved in fulfilling its purpose, vision, mission and objectives.

Supporting Realisation of Agenda 2063

The focus of the ACOA theme spotlighted the need for pursuit of a transformative agenda that will drive the growth of African economies. Please click here for a view of the topics covered.

API’s objective, vision and mission aims to enable the realisation of support for the success of the African Union Agenda 2063 aspirations.

API’s engagements with various stakeholders during ACOA focused on building and strengthening partnerships to accelerate capacity development for public sector financial management professionals including accountants, auditors (external and internal) and non-finance managers in the public sector across the African continent.

This is a sustainable way to deliver value and quality results to common citizens through successful implementation of the Public Finance Management Reforms (PFM). programmes. PFM reforms are being undertaken by many African countries, with a view to enhancing accountability and transparency in the use of public resources.

The API offers an accelerated, easily accessible, most affordable and highly advantageous pathway to strengthening current and future public sector professionals’ ability to be effective in actualising the PFM reforms. These professionals include- Accountants; Auditors; Non-Finance Managers and other policy leaders in the public sector such as legislators, donors, among others.

PAFA Advisory Group Meetings

API staff also had a chance to engage during the PAFA Advisory Group Sessions which provided an avenue to provide clarity and essential information to country leaders (Policy and Technical) about the work that is being done through the API (PAFA; AFROSAI-E; CREFIAF; ESAAG) partnership. Stakeholders at these meetings particularly sought to know more about the benefits of PAOs could derive from the API.

The PAFA Accountancy Learning and Development (ALD) Advisory Group (AG)

The art of war teaches us to rely not on the likelihood of the enemy’s not coming, but on our own readiness to receive him; not on the chance of him not attacking, but rather on the fact that we have made our position unassailable.

Key insights were shared during the PAFA ALD Advisory Group session, and these revealed the value that underpins reflecting about the profession in terms of many decades ahead, and thinking backwards to identify how we can design and rebuild a profession and professionals that are future ready. Not doing so could be tantamount to preparing for extinction.

This thought provoking and imaginative session was led by Prof. Rashied Small, who is Chairman to both the ALD-AG and the API Academic Quality Committees. Below we sample some of the take aways from this session.

1. Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) will play a key role in the mobility of professional accountants thereby supporting the realisation of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
2. If we do not change and improve how we create value, business as usual will be unsustainable. Upskilling and re-skilling is the root to success. Are we still relevant as a profession? We need to revisit our methodologies for learning to attract young learners to the profession and keep them interested and engaged.
3. We can choose to do the same things, do the same things differently, or do different things. We can’t solve problems with the same effort that caused them. We need to provide better, smarter solutions. “When you run on the same spot, you don’t need a grave digger because you will dig your own grave”. The challenge is to focus on doing different things that work better.
4. By doing different things we will create new opportunities. We need to be dynamic to create the desired change for the benefit of humanity.
5. The accountancy profession has developed a legacy of trust and should maintain that position into the long-term future through evidenced value creation for the public.
6. We should avoid “make-up” solutions to avoid being disrupted by those professions and disciplines that dive deeper to create revolutionary solutions.
7. People do not like those (game changers) who rock the boat to create necessary change. They love status quo. Professional accountants should become change drivers and start creating the future before they face a crisis.
8. Education is currently obsessed with technical content and students engage in rote learning by reciting the content. Education is focusing on cognitive at the expense of practical application. There is need to re-focus education on practical application and problem solving geared towards value creation (that which is beneficial to society).
9. Most education systems are preparing young people for the past, not the future, yet the business environment is changing faster than ever while education curricula lags far behind.
10. Ethics helps address the question of whether we are protectors of public interest against corruption or whether we are facilitators of financial malpractice (loss of citizens resources) and self-interest.
11. Professionals should concern themselves about the wholesome long-term wellbeing of human beings and the environment – social intelligence, environmental intelligence, emotional intelligence.
12. Education should teach how to advance decision-making effectiveness by addressing the use and relevant application of seasoned judgement, professional scepticism and not just hard-headed accumulation of knowledge that may not lead to valuable change.
13. Education approaches should be agile and respond to reality by matching opportunities to what people are best at. In ICT there are limited or no entry requirements. You build a great solution, you become successful. If your solution is not good enough, you get to try again. Accountants should focus on being the best at delivering quality solutions that create value.

The above sharing is a challenge to policy leaders and professionals to think differently and do different things fit for the future.

The IFAC MOU Partners Support Strengthening PFM in Africa

The API team took part in the meeting organised by the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) and its MOU Partners (Donors) to review and consider activities planned and undertaken; achievements; current status; challenges; lessons; opportunities; and charting of the value creation journey ahead. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between IFAC, GAVI, The Global Fund, USAID and PAFA aims to enhance and formalize the collaboration amongst these partners to contribute and strengthen public financial management systems in Africa.

The MOU’s areas of Common Strategic Interest covers the following:

• Support the development of strong professional accountancy organizations (PAOs) to contribute to the enhancement of public financial management, reporting, accountability and transparency.
• Improve the public financial management systems to support sustainable health outcomes and impact.

The key objectives of the MOU include:

• Provide a platform for collaboration between the five (5) organizations to support: awareness-raising activities, scoping of capacity building projects, and facilitate dialogue with development partners, stakeholders in the public sector and the accountancy profession; and
• Extend the collaboration to national interventions aiding PAOs to provide training and capacity building for finance personnel of the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Health, Local Governments, and Supreme Audit Institutions.

About The API

Our Vision: An African public sector capacitated with competent, ethical and influential professionals who support accountability, transparency and good financial governance.

Our Mission: To grow the capacity of accountancy professionals in the African public sector for enhanced service delivery.

The API Organisation and Learning Programmes

The API is an independent non-profit organisation whose primary objective is to strengthen the capacity and knowledge base of accounting and auditing professionals in the African public sector to enhance accounting and auditing service delivery to the citizens of Africa.

The API Learning Programme aims to achieve the above institutional goal as a partnership between the accountancy profession (represented by the Pan African Federation of Accountants (“PAFA”)), accountants general or their equivalent (currently being represented by the East and Southern African Association of Accountants (“ESAAG” – and in the near future the Association of African Accountants General – “AAAG”)), and supreme audit institutions or courts of auditors (represented by the English (“AFROSAI-E”) and French (“CREFIAF”) language sub-groups of the African Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (“AFROSAI”)).

Contact the API Team for more details: info@professionalisation.africa | www.professionalisation.africa

Bien qu’il y ait de nouvelles données probantes sur la pratique de la CASP dans les milieux anglophones africains, il y a très peu de renseignements documentés sur les milieux francophones compte tenu de la façon dont les systèmes institutionnels, législatifs et réglementaires ont tendance à se développer à partir des traditions et de l’influence françaises, même après l’indépendance. C’est dans cette optique que l’approche de renforcement des capacités de l’IPA cherche les moyens et stratégies visant à l’adapter aux contextes politiques, linguistiques et institutionnels pertinents. Entreprendre cette étude est donc une étape clé permettant d’aborder le contexte francophone.

En termes de caractéristiques clés, nous avons expliqué les différentes directives de l’UEMOA[1] et de la CEMAC[2] qui sous-tendent la CASP et comment ces directives sont adoptées dans les différents pays membres. Ce faisant, nous avons souligné les différents éléments du cadre de la CASP (code de transparence, lois budgétaires, règlement général sur la comptabilité publique, nomenclature budgétaire, plan comptable de l’État, tableau des opérations financières de l’État, comptabilité matière). Nous avons ensuite mis l’accent sur le rôle de différentes institutions, allant des institutions supranationales aux institutions nationales/locales dans le cadre de la mise en œuvre de ces directives. Par exemple, le Fonds monétaire international (FMI), par l’intermédiaire de son bureau régional AFRITAC[3] s’est beaucoup impliqué dans la rédaction de la version révisée en 2011 des Directives de la CEMAC. Nous avons également expliqué comment le ministère des finances, les parlements nationaux et la Cour des comptes, entre autres, sont engagés dans la transposition des directives dans les contextes nationaux et infranationaux, et les défis que cela représente. En outre, nous avons décrit en détail l’existence de groupes professionnels distincts (appelés Corps), chacun ayant des fonctions et des responsabilités très précises dans le contexte de la CASP. Un « Corps » est souvent reconnu structurellement par un décret officiel, et les exigences d’entrée à chaque niveau du Corps et de progression vers le niveau suivant sont prescrites dans les textes réglementaires. Il existe donc des lignes de démarcation claires entre ces différents Corps, ce qui remet quelque peu en question le concept même d’une profession comptable unique dans le secteur public.

Ces différences se reflètent largement dans le système éducatif et les programmes de formation. L’accès à ces professions se fait en grande partie par le biais d’un institut spécialisé appartenant à des ministères tels que le ministère des finances, la primature (par exemple, au Niger et au Togo) ou faisant partie d’un établissement universitaire (par exemple, au Bénin). Les diplômes pertinents délivrés par ces instituts sont définis dans les textes réglementaires et législatifs, mais la possibilité a été donnée aux titulaires de diplômes équivalents d’accéder à ces professions. Par exemple, l’Ecole Nationale d’Administration (ENA) du Togo propose des programmes de troisième cycle, de premier cycle et de développement professionnel continu qui forment des comptables publics (trésoriers), des inspecteurs des impôts et des Contrôleurs/Inspecteurs. Les enseignants de ces programmes sont pour la plupart des praticiens du secteur public qui sont soutenus par un petit groupe d’universitaires. Bien qu’il existe certains éléments de preuve qui montrent que les programmes sont assez régulièrement mis à jour, dans d’autres cas, le contenu, la qualité des programmes et le profil des enseignants ont besoin de réformes et d’améliorations. Dans les quatre pays ayant fait l’objet de l’étude, la participation des institutions comptables du secteur privé (par exemple, les organisations professionnelles des comptables, communément appelées les OPC) est à peine perceptible en raison de la séparation entre la comptabilité du secteur public et celle du secteur privé. Néanmoins, certains des instituts spécialisés seraient désireux de collaborer avec l’IPA en termes d’intégration de matériel, de ressources et d’approches pédagogiques dans leurs programmes. Nous soutenons que la tentative d’intégrer les réformes de la CASP de la même façon que dans le contexte anglophone n’est pas limitée à un simple exercice de traduction linguistique ou de traitement de différences sémantiques. Par contre, les réformes doivent cibler ou avoir lieu au sein des groupements institutionnels et professionnels existants que nous avons décrit dans ce rapport.

Sur la base de ce qui précède, nous avons identifié des opportunités d’engagement avec de multiples organisations professionnelles et académiques en vue d’une intégration progressive du cadre et du matériel d’apprentissage de l’IPA dans les contextes de l’Afrique francophone. Cela peut se faire, par exemple, par le lancement de programmes d’études officiels et/ou en s’appuyant sur des programmes de formation continue. De telles étapes seront utiles car elles offriront des opportunités, du temps et de synergies permettant d’améliorer les résultats de la gestion des finances publiques, ce qui représente l’objectif ultime de l’IPA. Certes, il existe des risques en termes de volonté politique et/ou de disponibilité de ressources et des acteurs locaux pour initier des collaborations et soutenir des programmes de renforcement des capacités en matière de la CASP. En conclusion, bien que l’IPA et ses partenaires aient le mérite d’aborder un accord de collaboration au plus haut niveau (régional) (telle que l’UEMOA), nous sommes également conscients que le meilleur exemple ou la meilleure expérience et les meilleurs résultats viennent du terrain. Dans cette perspective l’API aura le mérite d’explorer et d’initier des collaborations sur le terrain y compris avec des établissements d’enseignement publics et privés dans les pays cibles afin de montrer ce qui pourrait être réalisé.

[1] L’Union économique et Monétaire Ouest Africaine.   

[2] LaCommunauté Économique des États de l’Afrique Centrale.

[3] Centre régional d’assistance technique en Afrique.

With reference to the Request for Proposal (RFP) on the above subject matter issued on 6 March 2023, Service providers are being informed that a Notice of Clarification and Amendment of Instructions was issued on 14 March 2023, see attached. 

The closing date for receiving proposals remains 27 March 2023.

The mission of the African Professionalisation Programme (API) is to grow the capacity of accountancy professionals in the African public sector for enhanced service delivery. The API achieves this mission through developing online learning programmes and facilitating the adoption and implementation of these programmes across the public sector in Africa.

One of the learning programs is the Accelerated Learning Programme (ALP) which targets Incumbents: senior officials in public financial management (PFM) roles who do not have a professional accountancy background.

The Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA) is a partner in the API.

PAFA has been engaged by the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) to implement a project funded by Gavi – The Vaccine Alliance and The Global Fund to strengthen accountancy and finance capacity in the public sector, particularly the health sector, in Burkina Faso. The API ALP will be used for this purpose. The API ALP is available only in English. It will be translated into French and contextualised for this purpose.

The Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) has provided funding for the translation and contextualisation of the API learning programmes.

The (attached RFP) is for Translators interested in translating the API ALP from English to French. Interested consultants are requested to respond to the RFP through the following Link.

A Notice of Clarification and Amendment of Instructions to Translators was issued on 14 March. The Notice can be accessed here.

The Swedish International Development and Cooperation Agency (SIDA) has offered The African Professionalisation Initiative nothing but the most fervent support. Through a programme funding agreement with AFROSAI-E to support the professionalisation of public sector accountants and auditors in African governments, SIDA is making significant contribution to the realisation of greater accountability and transparency in the use of public sector resources in Africa. This support is a fundamental catalyst for the realisation of the African Union aspirations articulated in the AU Agenda 2063.

Therese Sjöström, one of SIDA’s program leaders offered words of support and encouragement to the API team during her visit to attend the SIDA annual meetings in Pretoria, South Africa. While observing the API Project Steering Group (PSG) meeting on 31^st of January 2023 in Pretoria, Therese articulated the Swedish government’s desire to make a positive contribution to Africa’s progress through noble initiatives such as the African Professionalisation Initiative.

SIDA is Sweden’s government agency for development cooperation. SIDA strives to reduce poverty and oppression around the world. In cooperation with organisations, government agencies and the private sector by investing in sustainable development for all people.

About The API – Our Purpose and Vision

The API is an independent non-profit organisation whose primary objective/ purpose is to strengthen the capacity and knowledge base of accounting and auditing professionals in the African public sector to enhance accounting and auditing service delivery to the citizens of Africa. The API’s progress so far has been realised thanks to the funding support from SIDA. API are also grateful to the International Federation of Accountants – IFAC – and other stakeholders for the foundational work with API’s partner organisations (PAFA, AFROSAI-E, CREFIAF & ESAAG) that led to the promotion and crystallisation of the API institution and API learning programs.

The API vision is “an African public sector capacitated with competent, ethical and influential professionals who support accountability, transparency and good financial governance”.

API Learning Programme

The API aims to achieve the above institutional goal as a partnership between the accountancy profession (represented by the Pan African Federation of Accountants (“PAFA”)), accountants general or their equivalent (currently being represented by the East and Southern African Association of Accountants General (“ESAAG” – and in the near future the Association of African Accountants General – “AAAG”)), and supreme audit institutions or courts of auditors (represented by the English (“AFROSAI-E”) and French (“CREFIAF”) language sub-groups of the African Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (“AFROSAI”))

Public Value Creation

The API is committed to creating positive change in the lives of African citizens through realisation of the above purpose and vision. To do this, we rely on the generous support of partners and donors like SIDA. Over the past year, we have made significant progress towards our mission, including:

a) Rollout of the implementation of the API in Zimbabwe

b) Generating interest from 15 African countries to implement the API

c) Completing development of the Accelerated Learning Content targeting un professionalised government accountants and auditors

d) Deployment of high quality and Online Learning Platform accessible from anywhere with internet access

e) Development of a portfolio of high-quality tools and systems for successful in-country implementation

API New Strategic Plan 2024-2026

The API has launched activities for the development of the new strategic plan for the period 2024 to 2026. This new strategy will set out a road map for realisation of the API purpose while seizing the opportunities available to transform human life across the African continent. In particular, the strategy will speak to how API’s support for accountability and transparency in the public sector would contribute to the success of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as well as the African Union’s seven aspirations in the Agenda 2063 AU blue-print. We welcome suggestions and ideas on how to make the API more effective in fulfilling its purpose.

API Governance Arrangements

To ensure that our programs are effective and efficient, we have a team of experienced and dedicated staff members who are passionate about making a difference. Staff work within the API committee structure and report to the Executive committee. The Executive Committee oversights the work of the secretariat and in turn reports to the API Governing Council in line with our constitution. The API has developed a stakeholder engagement and communication plan that is used for the purpose of advancing value creating engagements with key stakeholders and the general public.

The above governance arrangement provides oversight and guidance to ensure that we are using available resources efficiently and effectively creating value thereby making a positive impact on the lives of the Citizens of Africa.

Hosting of API

The API is currently hosted by the AFROSAI-E and we utilise the strong and resilient AFROSAI-E governance arrangements and due processes to ensure full accountability and efficiency in the use of donor funds and resources made available for API’s programs. The API is in the process of transitioning to an independent entity in line with the API constitution.

Partnerships – For a Better future

We laud SIDA’s support and do thank other development partners and donors – such as IFAC, The African Development Fund, USAID, The Global Fund, GAVI and GIZ – for their interest and support for the African Professionalisation Initiative. The API believes that we should work today in partnership to create the future rather than take for granted that the future will be better.

We publish a quarterly newsletter to provide updates on the available opportunities and the progress being made. We invite you to subscribe to our address book via the API website so that we may get this insightful publication to you.

Capacity development for public sector accountants and auditors is API’s core priority. As such, in addition to the API learning Programmes, we run Continuing Professional Development (CPD) events jointly with our partners. The next career redefining CPD event takes place on the 26^th of April 2023.

Please click here to register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAuduuvqTMjGNLnhPa0riwxY6uWueUdkl8I

Contact the API team for more details : info@professionalisation.africa

The publication can be downloaded here 

Without sufficient professional accountants, African states are vulnerable to exploitation and corruption. It is for this reason that the African Professionalisation Initiative (API) was set up. The API works to grow the capacity of accountants to have the competencies needed to be effective in an evolving public sector role. The API is a partnership between the accounting profession, accountants general, and supreme audit institutions (SAIs) from across Africa.

During recent meetings of the API Board, several members shared their respective country perspectives on the need for a capacitated workforce that can effectively handle public sector accountancy matters.

 What need can be addressed by the API?

One member raised a concerning perspective related to the belief that the training of accountants requires significant effort and resources. The challenge is how to develop accountants that not only understand the public sector, but who can also work in the private sector. The leadership of that country felt that the API should play a facilitative role, by connecting different organisations for a mutual mission of professionalising public sector accountants. This would enable better integration between regions in Africa making sure that ‘no country is left behind’ in the professionalisation agenda. Another member perspective was that there should be a focus on building capacity of qualified professional accountants in line with country needs. Through the support of partners such as AFROSAI-E and the World Bank, the country had thus far been able to move forward on several PFM reforms. It is therefore considered important to tie professionalisation efforts to reforms that are already taking place in that country.

A member from the Francophone region said that there is a definite need in their country for capacity building. The numbers of ‘sharp professionals’ are considered quite low, despite the country implementing a programme to improve the situation. The country concerned currently has some training in place and therefore is still on a journey of capacity building. However, the API is seen as an initiative that can come in handy to supply the much-needed relevant training materials.

In a different country, the member noted that the accounting profession is at an early growth stage. The country recently launched a professional accountancy organisation (PAO), along with the first batch of exams written soon thereafter. The number of qualified accountants is however still not in line with what the economy needs. This is despite government sponsoring students to pursue accountancy related qualification from as far back as 2006 (with foreign PAOs). The latest projection on the future needs of that country show that the number of professional accountants needed is still much higher than the rate of professionalisation. The API can therefore play a crucial role in bridging the existing gap.

In addressing the issue of relevancy of the accountancy qualification, one country’s PAOs has adopted two different models for a public sector accounting qualification. One of the PAOs included public sector content into its existing programme while the other made its public sector qualification a stand-alone qualification, based on a competency framework like the API’s accelerated learning programme. In this instance the API’s competency framework and learning content was of great benefit to the two PAOs concerned. Overall, the API competency framework and capacity building methodology provides a good benchmark between what is happening in different jurisdictions and what is considered as best practice.

 What efforts have been undertaken to attract and retain qualified professionals in the public sector?

Several approaches have been employed to attract and retain competent professionals in the public sector to drive the required change. There is however a limitation in terms of research carried out in this area. Highlighted below are perspectives shared by some of the board members of API on this matter:

A member from the Francophone region expressed that in their country recruitment of the public sector workforce is the responsibility of a designated committee. Those recruited are officers that are trained by country institutions in government service. However, they often lacked adequate exposure on emerging issues in accounting and auditing. Some of the public service challenges the member described, relates to ensuring adequate accountability, the transition to accrual accounting and the re-training of accounting staff who were originally trained on single entry accounting. The member noted that accountants working in the public sector are often encouraged to study a master’s in public finance but, implementing the API can assist in driving demand for similar programmes that lead to professional certification.

Furthermore, accountants in the Francophone region face the challenge of that an accountant must choose to work either in the public or private sector. Given that there is no structure to ensure mobility between public and private sectors or vice versa, majority of these professionals opted to work in the private sector. In one Anglophone country a member said that the main challenge for that public sector environment is in attracting and retaining professional accountants, despite lower pay scales compared to what the private sector offers. There is also a belief that it takes longer to rise through the ranks in the public sector compared to the private sector. To address these and other challenges, the government, through the country’ public service commission, has developed a scheme of service for all public sector employees. This is aimed at retaining competent accountants in the public sector, especially as the country is implementing IPSAS.

Continuing the topic of attraction and retention, the member said that the reality of limited resources, is a significant challenge. This country was proactive and developed a multi-year training and development plan, in collaboration with other institutional partners. The implementation of this plan was extended by government for an added five years, with an intention that it would lead to certification.

 Another member shared that their country has experienced several ethical failures, with professionalisation at low levels. The public sector started the professionalisation journey a few years back by specifying qualifications for every job grade and set minimum competency levels. More importantly, there was a strong push for everyone to be professionalised, including recognition that there might be a need for forensic accounting skills, with a designation in this field being available for those already serving in the public sector to undertake.

The last member to provide their perspective agreed that the main challenge in the public sector is the lack of resources, in addition to competing with the private sector for talent. The member recommended that the starting point should be to upskill those already in positions. This is as opposed to recruiting those from the outside, which would require them to come into an unfamiliar terrain, and most likely leave at the earliest opportunity. It was found that for the public sector to be attractive, there is a need to design packages that are competitive, with adequate opportunity for personal development.

Conclusion

To ensure that the API remains at the cutting edge of innovative resources for public sector accountants and auditors the API Competency Framework needs to remain dynamic and adaptive. It is therefore for this reason that the API’s Academic Advisory Committee is in the process of revising the current framework. This will ensure that the learning resource are developed with reference to the most up to date thinking and approaches, contributing to enhanced capacity.

Deadline for Proposals: Friday 19 November 2021 at 5pm (South African time)

Download Request for Proposal

The following documents relate to the call:

• The initial invitation can be found here
• Detailed criteria have been set and can be found here
• The API White Paper on Professionalisation: Building Professional Capacity for Public Value Management provides perspectives on important considerations when embarking on a professionalisation journey.

For any queries please send an email to info@professionalisation.africa

]]> https://professionalisation.africa/appel-aux-pays-a-manifester-leur-interet-pour-le-soutien-a-la-mise-en-oeuvre-de-lapi/ Sun, 04 Jul 2021 21:17:25 +0000 https://professionalisation.africa/?p=586 L’API lance un appel aux pays pour qu’ils expriment leur intérêt à recevoir une assistance pour la mise en œuvre de l’API. Recevoir ce soutien permettra aux pays sélectionnés d’être parmi des premiers à adopter les ressources d’apprentissage et la méthodologie de renforcement des capacités de l’API. L’API organisera un webinaire d’information le mercredi 4 août 2021, pour expliquer les critères de sélection des pays et le soutien qui sera donné aux pays sélectionnés. Les informations suivantes ont été incluses pour fournir des informations supplémentaires :

• Invitation à manifester un intérêt
• Critères de sélection pour la mise en œuvre dans le pays
• Stratégie API
• Livre blanc API : Renforcement des capacités professionnelles pour la gestion de la valeur publique

Inscrivez-vous maintenant pour participer à cette session d’information

The following documents have been included to provide further information:

• Invitation to express an interest
• API implementation country selection criteria
• API Strategy
• API White Paper: Building Professional Capacity for Public Value Management

Register now to join in on this information session. French interpretation will be available.

The African Professionalisation Initiative (API) is working to grow the number of professional accountants and auditors across the African public sector. The API’s approach is centred on developing and enhancing key competencies that would allow accountants and auditors in various roles in public financial management to better deliver on this important mandate.

The API has today published a white paper to guide governments and other key stakeholders who are embarking on the journey of professionalisation. The paper identifies and unpacks 12 questions that a government should ask about the professionalisation of accounting and auditing in the public sector. It will enable a country to determine the first steps it should take towards the vision of a public sector that is capacitated with competent, ethical and influential professionals who support accountability, transparency and good financial governance.

The full document may be downloaded here: 

For any thoughts or interest in implementing the API’s resources in your country please visit:  https://professionalisation.africa  or send an email to info@professionalisation.africa

Lors de sa réunion, le CSI a obtenu les principaux résultats suivants:

– L’approbation de la stratégie API pour diffusion publique

– L’approbation des critères de mise en œuvre de l’API dans les pays

– L’approbation du Livre blanc sur la professionnalisation en tant que leader de la réflexion sur l’API.

Vous trouverez de plus amples informations sur chaque résultat sur le site web de l’API.

The feedback received is being used to enhance the content that is currently under development, with the next phases due for piloting very soon. This feedback will ensure that the content continues to address the needs of the target group, incumbents in public finance management roles who do not have a formal accountancy qualification. Indeed, participants had this to say of their experience:

“Valuable lessons from a public sector perspective”- Participant #1

“Must do courses, to be done in all organisations annually”- Participant #2

“Amazing, amazing, amazing!”- Participant #3