News / National
Zimbabwe's Auditor-General grossly underfunded
24 Oct 2023 at 00:59hrs | Views
The Office of the Auditor-General has conveyed its dire need for increased funding and has formally requested additional financial support from the Treasury in the 2024 budget. Acting Auditor-General Rheah Kujinga disclosed this during her appearance before the Public Accounts Committee to present proposals for the 2024 national budget.
She underscored the fact that the office had received only 30% of its projected requirements in the previous budget, making it exceptionally challenging to fulfill its mandated responsibilities. Kujinga emphasized that the Auditor-General's role in contributing to the national vision can only be truly realized with sufficient resources, which are vital for enhancing independence and effectiveness.
She stated, "It is imperative to recognize that strengthening the supreme audit institution is crucial for improving transparency and accountability in the country."
Additionally, the Ministry of Information Communication and Technology (ICT) submitted written statements to the committee following ministry officials' attendance at the launch of the International Day of Universal Access to Information in Chivi.
The ICT ministry highlighted numerous challenges it has encountered, such as budget constraints, unmet targets, and the adverse impact of insufficient budget allocations compared to requested bids. These constraints have hindered the full execution of the ministry's strategic projects. The erosion of budgets due to inflation, high staff turnover, and delayed fund disbursements have further compounded the ministry's challenges.
To overcome these challenges and ensure the successful implementation of the ministry's projects, it was stressed that increased funding and improved budget allocation were necessary. The ministry should also explore strategies for domestic resource mobilization, such as leveraging the Universal Services Fund and engaging with development partners in the ICT sector.
With adequate support and resources, the ministry has the potential to continue driving the digital economy, improving the quality of life for Zimbabweans, and contributing to the country's overall socio-economic development.
She underscored the fact that the office had received only 30% of its projected requirements in the previous budget, making it exceptionally challenging to fulfill its mandated responsibilities. Kujinga emphasized that the Auditor-General's role in contributing to the national vision can only be truly realized with sufficient resources, which are vital for enhancing independence and effectiveness.
She stated, "It is imperative to recognize that strengthening the supreme audit institution is crucial for improving transparency and accountability in the country."
The ICT ministry highlighted numerous challenges it has encountered, such as budget constraints, unmet targets, and the adverse impact of insufficient budget allocations compared to requested bids. These constraints have hindered the full execution of the ministry's strategic projects. The erosion of budgets due to inflation, high staff turnover, and delayed fund disbursements have further compounded the ministry's challenges.
To overcome these challenges and ensure the successful implementation of the ministry's projects, it was stressed that increased funding and improved budget allocation were necessary. The ministry should also explore strategies for domestic resource mobilization, such as leveraging the Universal Services Fund and engaging with development partners in the ICT sector.
With adequate support and resources, the ministry has the potential to continue driving the digital economy, improving the quality of life for Zimbabweans, and contributing to the country's overall socio-economic development.
Source - newsday
