Matsapha – Civil Service Commission (CSC) Chairperson Simanga Mamba has urged public accountants to strengthen accountability, professionalism, and ethical conduct, saying Eswatini needs officers who can confidently defend their audit reports and ensure value for public funds.
Speaking during the 2025 International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) Change Management Workshop held at Esibayeni Lodge, Mamba stressed that improving public finance begins with competent officers who combine compliance, integrity, and technical skill.
“If we are to improve public finance, we should have accounting officers who are ready to defend their audit reports and assist in consequence management,” he said. “The Public Accounts Committee should not be about whistleblowing only but must ensure that those responsible for financial losses face the consequences of their actions.”
Mamba said accountability extends beyond bookkeeping, describing accounting as a balance between numbers and economic justice. He urged accountants to question whether public spending truly benefits citizens rather than merely fulfilling bureaucratic requirements.
Citing inflated project costs, he asked, “If we say we’ve built a bridge worth E30 million, is that bridge really worth E30 million in value and quality, or is it an exaggerated cost? Accountants must ensure that what is paid for is exactly what is delivered.”
He further called for enhanced capacity building in legal and contractual interpretation, particularly in procurement, to ensure that payments and projects adhere to ethical and lawful standards.
Highlighting the need for swift disciplinary measures, Mamba said consequence management should be central to financial governance whenever funds are misused or mistakes occur. He also emphasised the importance of recruiting and retaining competent, ethical professionals in the public sector, noting that qualifications alone are insufficient. “Competence is not just about knowledge; it is also about attitude and integrity,” he added.
Mamba commended the Ministry of Finance and the Treasury Department for leading the IPSAS adoption process, which will take effect in April 2026. He described the reform as “a new chapter of professionalism and accountability” for Eswatini’s financial systems.
“To deliver effectively, we need a strong public finance function built on ethics, competence, and responsibility. That is how we will transform our public service and ensure value for every cent spent.”
Discussion about this post