THE Institute of Internal Auditors Zimbabwe convened a high-level engagement in Kadoma, bringing together senior government officials and representatives of parastatals to strengthen good governance systems in line with the country’s development agenda.

The two-day meeting is focusing on enhancing transparency, accountability and risk management across public institutions, with internal audit professionals playing a central role in safeguarding public resources.

Organisers and participants are interrogating existing governance frameworks and sharing best practices aimed at improving service delivery and institutional efficiency.

“This platform allows us to align our operations with global best practices while addressing local challenges. It is key in improving performance, strengthening internal controls and enhancing accountability within state enterprises. We are also capacitating auditors to provide independent assurance that adds value to governance processes,” Institute of Internal Auditors Zimbabwe’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Mayepudzo Mbira said.

“As organisers, we are deliberately creating a platform for knowledge exchange and professional collaboration. This engagement ensures that auditors and board members are equipped with the latest tools and insights to strengthen governance systems, manage risk effectively and uphold ethical standards across public institutions,” board member of the Institute of Internal Auditors Zimbabwe, Mr Tafireyi Nyamazana added.

Government officials have underscored the need for robust oversight mechanisms, noting that sound financial management systems are critical in driving sustainable economic growth and public confidence.

“Good governance is the backbone of national development. From a media perspective, there is a need for accurate, transparent and responsible reporting that reflects the true state of affairs within institutions. Strengthened internal controls and audit systems complement the media’s role in promoting accountability and informing citizens on how public resources are being utilised,” Chief Director in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jonathan Gandari said.

“Through the Corporate Governance Unit, we are reinforcing the importance of strong internal audit functions as a key pillar for good governance. Our mandate is to guide, monitor and evaluate compliance with governance frameworks across public entities, ensuring they operate with integrity, accountability and in full alignment with Vision 2030 aspirations,” Permanent Secretary, Corporate Governance Unit (CGU) in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Mr Allen Choruma added.

The engagement comes at a time when Zimbabwe is intensifying efforts to achieve an upper-middle-income society by 2030, with emphasis on prudent financial management, institutional reforms and strengthened oversight systems.

Story by Tamuka Charakupa