Durban:Public finance leaders and governance experts have urged for enhanced accountability, ethical leadership, and innovation to rebuild public trust and improve service delivery in South Africa.
According to South African Government News Agency, this appeal was made at the 97th Annual Chartered Institute of Government Finance Audit and Risk Officers (CIGFARO) Conference, which is currently taking place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban. The three-day event, themed 'Reimagining Public Finance Leadership for a Changing South Africa,' began on Tuesday and brings together public sector leaders, finance professionals, governance experts, auditors, risk practitioners, policymakers, and strategic stakeholders from across the nation.
The conference serves as a dynamic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge sharing on critical issues affecting the public sector. CIGFARO President Louise Muller emphasized the organization's dedication to promoting ethical conduct, technical excellence, and continuous learning among public finance professionals. Muller highlighted the importance of these values in supporting South Africa's democracy.
Minister of Public Service and Administration, Mzamo Buthelezi, addressed the need for transparent and accurate financial reporting to restore confidence in public institutions. He emphasized the importance of clear and honest financial records in building trust in public finance officials.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Thulasizwe Buthelezi, stressed that effective public finance management should lead to tangible improvements in the lives of citizens. He advocated for agile, inclusive, and data-driven approaches, focusing on long-term sustainability.
EThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba discussed the challenges local governments face, including constrained resources, infrastructure demands, and rising expectations. He underscored the need for modern leadership to integrate finance, technology, and operations to address these challenges.
The initial day of the conference focused on topics such as digital transformation, resilience in public finance, women in leadership, and the Municipal Standard Chart of Accounts. The event also features an exhibition area for delegates to interact with organizations and stakeholders in the public finance and governance sectors.