By Alfred Zacharia
In January 2025, Tanzania reached a significant milestone in the field of internal auditing with the appointment of Augustino Mbogella to the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) Oversight Council by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Global.
Mbogella, the only African representative on the influential global body, is now positioned to influence the future of internal auditing on the global stage, a recognition that not only elevates his personal achievements but also highlights Tanzania’s growing prominence in the international internal auditing community.
Mbogella’s appointment is seen as a reflection of Tanzania's consistent efforts to align its internal auditing practices with global standards.
Since adopting the IPPF as the benchmark for the profession in 2011, Tanzania has strived to ensure that its internal auditors uphold internationally recognized standards, contributing to the strengthening of the credibility and effectiveness of internal auditing practices within the country.
Mbogella, through his leadership, has been instrumental in advancing this cause, and his appointment by the IIA Global marks the international acknowledgment of Tanzania’s contributions to the profession.
“It is an honor to represent Tanzania on such a prestigious platform,” Mbogella shared, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity.
“This role provides a unique opportunity to further shape the quality of internal audit practices globally, especially in Africa, and to ensure that we continue to promote good governance and risk management,” he added.
His remarks underline his dedication to the profession and the responsibility he now carries as a representative of not just Tanzania, but the broader African continent.
The recognition of Mbogella’s leadership comes at a pivotal time, as the global internal audit community prepares to implement new Global Internal Audit Standards in January 2025.
The significance of this timing is not lost on Richard Magongo, the former President of IIA Tanzania, who expressed his pride in Mbogella’s achievement.
“This is great news for the organization and for Tanzania,” Magongo remarked, noting that Mbogella’s appointment underscores the country’s continued leadership in shaping the profession globally.
He also highlighted the importance of the upcoming global standards, which will have far-reaching implications for internal auditing practices worldwide.
Emmanuel Johannes, a member of the IIA Global Board and former Chairman of the African Federation of Institutes of Internal Auditors (AFIIA), emphasized that Mbogella’s appointment is a recognition of the excellent work being done by IIA Tanzania.
“This appointment is not only a testament to Mbogella’s individual excellence but also to the continued growth of IIA Tanzania as a leading force in the profession,” Johannes said.
He further reflected on his own experience, recalling his appointment to the IIA Global Board two years ago and how it marked a continued tradition of Tanzanian leadership in the global internal audit community.
Dr. Zelia Njeza, the current President of IIA Tanzania, also expressed her congratulations to Mbogella, highlighting the importance of the timing of the appointment.
“Mbogella’s appointment is a testament to his leadership and expertise, but it also reflects the growing strength of IIA Tanzania as an influential organization within the profession. The fact that this appointment coincides with the implementation of new global standards makes it even more significant,” Njeza commented.
Tanzania’s increasing influence in the global internal auditing landscape cannot be overstated. Mbogella’s position on the IPPF Oversight Council allows Tanzania to contribute directly to global discussions and policy-making on internal auditing.
“This appointment is not just about me—it is about representing the many Tanzanian professionals and institutions that have worked tirelessly to elevate our standards and reputation. It is a recognition of our collective efforts,” Mr. Mbogella noted.
The broader implications of Mbogella’s appointment go beyond Tanzania. It serves as a symbol of the growing influence of African countries in global professional organizations.
Alongside South Africa, Tanzania has been at the forefront of promoting internal auditing practices in Africa, and Mbogella’s appointment strengthens the continent’s voice in shaping global governance, transparency, and accountability standards.
“Tanzania’s representation on the global stage opens doors for African internal auditors to have a say in how the profession evolves,” Mbogella emphasized.
As Mbogella embarks on this new chapter, the impact of his leadership is already being felt across the continent.
His appointment not only raises the profile of Tanzania’s internal auditing professionals but also serves as an inspiration to others aspiring to make a difference in their fields.
“The recognition of Tanzania’s internal audit expertise is an invitation for more professionals in our country to take part in global dialogues, contribute to international projects, and continuously elevate their standards,” Mbogella concluded.
Mbogella’s appointment to the IPPF Oversight Council is a milestone that signifies Tanzania’s growing stature in the global internal audit community.
With his leadership and the support of the broader internal auditing profession in Tanzania, the country is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of the profession, ensuring that it remains dynamic, responsive, and relevant to the evolving global landscape.
