WINDHOEK- President Hifikepunye Pohamba on Friday urged permanent secretaries and heads of public institutions to ensure that sound financial management systems are put in place to account for funds appropriated through the national budget. In addition, Pohamba said all offices, ministries and agencies should have operational internal audit units that are staffed by competent and skilled personnel.
“These units should not only focus on prudent financial management of their respective offices, ministries and agencies but should also enforce measures to curb the misuse, abuse and misappropriation of government assets,” said Pohamba.
The president added that the timely auditing of books of public institutions is essential as it enables government to account for the use of scarce public financial resources.
Pohamba added: “I am proud that the office of the auditor-general has improved its operational efficiencies over the years. It has been able to produce regular audit reports of various public institutions which are tabled and debated in parliament.”
The president made the remarks at the inauguration of the multi-million dollar state-of-the-art office of the auditor-general’s headquarters. The new headquarters complex cost N$111 million.
Pohamba further said the facility was constructed as part of the ongoing government programme to implement capital projects around the country.
“Through the projects government is expanding infrastructure and establishing institutions that facilitate effective and efficient infrastructure, and establishing institutions that facilitate effective and efficient service delivery.
“The funds utilised for the construction of this office building is money well spent,” said Pohamba. On his part, the auditor-general Junias Kandjeke said at that occasion that the building has enough offices, a lower level, ground level and open parking.
The building also has boardrooms, a conference facility, staff library, staff kitchens, offices for cleaners, labourers and one-bedroom apartment with facilities for a caretaker, added Kandjeke.
“We planned and constructed this building with more office space for future use as the office grows. Currently, we have accommodated the public accountants and auditors’ board with seven offices on the third floor. Empty offices will be reduced as we have budgeted to fill the 89 vacancies on our approved structure,” said Kandjeke.
Apart from financial audit, Kandjeke said the office of the auditor-general will also focus on environmental audit, information technology audit, forensic and strengthening performance audits.
“As we settle we will decide on how we will share the available space with other stakeholders. We will however reclaim the space as the need arises. The idea of sharing is aimed at efficient use of office space,” said Kandjeke.