By Joseph Mchekadona
The newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between The Institute of Internal Auditors Tanzania (IIA Tanzania) and the Office of the Internal Auditor General Zanzibar is set to upgrade the Internal Audit Profession in Zanzibar.
The deal was sealed recently in Zanzibar during a high-level Breakfast Meeting involving the duo organised as part of the ongoing celebrations to mark Internal Audit Month.
The MoU was signed on behalf of IIA Tanzania President CIA Jonathan Ngoma by Dr. Zelia Njeza, former IIA Tanzania President, alongside Ms. Fatuma Mohammed, Internal Auditor General Zanzibar.
The partnership aims to strengthen strategic collaboration in support of public sector Internal Auditors through professional development, certification support, technical advisory services, capacity building, and knowledge sharing.
In his opening speech, the Deputy Minister for Finance and Planning Zanzibar Dr. Hamad Omar Bakar emphasized on the importance of continuous professional development and capacity building for Internal Auditors in order to keep pace with today’s rapidly evolving governance and risk environment.
He further stressed on the need for stronger collaboration between Internal Audit functions, management, Boards, and Audit Committees to support effective governance and organizational success.
"Organisations should recognize Internal Audit not merely as a compliance function but also as a strategic partner capable of delivering insights, strengthening accountability, supporting decision making and promoting organisational value," he said.
Similarly, he called upon Internal Audit professionals to embrace digital transformation, innovation, and modern auditing approaches that enhance efficiency, strengthen analysis, and improve organizational impact in an increasingly technology-driven environment.
Meanwhile, Dr. Hamad Omar Bakar's presence underscored the growing recognition of Internal Audit as a critical pillar in strengthening governance, accountability, transparency, and organizational performance across both public and private sectors.
In attendance were Audit Committee Members, Board Leaders, Senior Executives, and Internal Audit Professionals who together reflected on the evolving value and impact of the Internal Audit profession.
Additionally, the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to advancing good governance, strengthening accountability, promoting adoption of the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) and building a highly skilled and future-ready Internal Audit profession capable of responding to emerging risks and delivering sustainable public value.
The Breakfast Meeting formed part of the broader Internal Audit Month activities coordinated by IIA Tanzania under the global awareness initiative aimed at promoting the value and importance of Internal Audit in organizations and society.
As Internal Audit Month continues, IIA Tanzania remains committed to advancing the profession through awareness creation, professional development, stakeholder engagement, and strategic partnerships that continue to elevate the role of Internal Audit as a trusted advisor and catalyst for good governance.
