Auditors Target Harmonised Cross Continent Standards

Mar 23 , 2024


A unified financial reporting framework and quality assurance review standards were discussed by auditors and accountants to create specific models for African countries and ensure consistency of audition practices. Participants from 25 African nations met at Addis Abeba's Radisson Blue Hotel, Tito St last week, with the Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA) developing the review standards to ensure high-quality auditing across the continent. "The goal is to advance the quality of accounting in Africa," said Admire Nudurudru, head of the Public Accountants & Auditor Board in Zimbabwe. The four-day session inspired lively debate over the complexity of auditing practices in Africa and the limited resources commonly provided for adequate analysis. State Minister for Finance Eyob Tekalign (PhD), said a significant gap exists in the accuracy and professionalism of financial reporting within the country due to the absence of well-defined guidelines. Eyob, who also chairs the Accounting & Audit Board of Ethiopia (AABE), stressed the urgent need to enhance auditing practices and ensure the reliability of financial information. Established two years ago, the Board has been rigorously enforcing International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), which became mandatory in 2022 for publicly accountable entities such as banks, insurers, and government-owned entities.


Radar

Ethiopia Buys Time, Not Relief as Creditors Stall on Debt Write-Off

Ethiopia's official creditors expect to finalise a draft restructuring of the country's debt in the coming months, granting the government more time to repay its obligations while avoiding a direct reduction to the initial debt amount. Ethiopia defaulted on its external debt in December 2023, before its leaders announced a preliminary deal in March with its Official Creditor Committee to reorganise 8.4 billion dollars, an essential step in moving beyond sovereign default. Under the agreement...


Radar

Road Injuries Increase by 35pc, with Pedestrians Most Affected

Addis Abeba's streets continue to present fatal risks for pedestrians, who account for 86pc of all traffic fatalities reported in 2023/24. Megenagna emerged as a particularly hazardous area, logging the highest number of fatalities, including 13 deaths. While the number of pedestrian deaths has dipped slightly, overall injuries have surged by 35pc since 2020/21, with eight out of 10 injuries involving those on foot. The Addis Abeba City Administration revised its 13-year road safety strate...


Radar

Awash Insurance Customer Week Discount

Awash Insurance Company(AIC), serving for over 30 years, gives a 25pc discount on Mortgage Redemption Insurance (MRI), Individual Life Insurance, Education Insurance, Workers' Compensation Insurance, and Fire & Lightning Insurance. This was announced during the celebration of Customer Week at their headquarters, on April 7,2025. Jibat Alemneh, CEO of the company said, Vehicles owners that purchased thier cars with full insurance coverage will receive enhanced benefits at no extra cost at...