Internal auditors in public institutions have been urged to strengthen risk management systems and continuously upgrade their skills to help institutions respond to emerging challenges and safeguard public resources.
Acting Controller and Auditor General for Internal Audit at the Ministry of Finance, Engineer Kenneth Nindie, said effective risk management requires strong systems, continuous professional development and greater use of available training opportunities, including online learning.
He made the remarks while closing the 19th Annual Internal Audit Conference at the administrative level, where participants discussed ways of improving internal audit practices and addressing emerging risks facing public institutions.
Mr Nindie said the Ministry of Finance recognised the importance of continuous training for internal auditors, particularly as institutions face increasingly complex operational and technological risks.
“We expect to have online training to build the capacity of internal auditors. The discussions we have had should help our boards see what needs to be done for institutions to achieve their goals, particularly ensuring that public assets deliver value to the citizens we serve,” he said.
He also stressed the need for closer cooperation between boards, management, internal auditors and other stakeholders to ensure that audit recommendations are acted upon.
Such collaboration, he said, would strengthen internal controls, improve risk management and enhance the efficiency and productivity of public institutions.
“We will continue working closely with all stakeholders to strengthen internal audit systems and risk management, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that public resources are used productively to contribute to national development,” Mr Nindie said.
The conference brought together officials and internal audit professionals to exchange experiences, discuss emerging challenges and undertake professional training.
Among the issues discussed was the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications for internal audit and public-sector management.
Participants were urged to assess and manage the risks and potential impacts associated with AI before focusing solely on its potential benefits.
Ministry of Finance officials who attended the conference included the Director of Administration and Human Resources Management, Mr Lusius Mwenda.
The conference provided a platform for internal auditors to share experiences and discuss measures for strengthening oversight, risk management and institutional accountability across the public sector.