By Sizwe Dlamini
It was a night of glitz and glamour at the Happy Valley Hotel on Wednesday evening when the Eswatini Institute of Accountants (ESIA) proudly conferred qualifications to 27 accountants.
This event celebrated graduates across four categories: Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Affiliates, South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) Examination passers, Admitted Chartered Accountants (Non-Practising), and ESIA Conversion Examination candidates, underscoring the diverse pathways to professional recognition in the accounting field.
Among the attendees were high-profile dignitaries, including the PM’s representative, the Minister of Education and Training Owen Nxumalo, the Deputy Prime Minister Thuli Dladla, Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg, Professor Themba Maseko, and former Speaker of the Cabinet in South Africa.
The ceremony also welcomed various Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), senior government officials, and the proud family members of the graduates.
Speaking on behalf of the Prime Minister, Minister Nxumalo emphasized the crucial role of accountants in fighting corruption, bribery, and poor service delivery.
He remarked, “The government continues to believe that education and training are crucial in keeping pace with the evolving financial landscape. As the Siswati saying goes, ‘ufundza uze ufe’—there is no limit to education. To remain relevant, you must continue seeking knowledge.”
Nxumalo highlighted the importance of transparency in eradicating corruption, which he noted can significantly hinder development. He discussed the various manifestations of corruption, from petty fraud to large-scale abuses involving extensive networks.
“The government of Eswatini is committed to eradicating corruption. During the last Sibaya, many citizens expressed how corruption affects them, leading to poor service delivery. We need to take action, and with the expertise of accountants, it is possible to combat this issue,” he stated.
The Minister congratulated the newly registered accountants, chartered accountants, and auditors, asserting that their achievements are commendable.
“I urge you all to practice integrity at all times, as the kingdom needs your skills. For ESIA to remain relevant and continue strengthening the accounting profession in Eswatini, it is essential to reinforce ethical and transparent processes and ethical leadership. Stable structures within ESIA are crucial for regulating the profession,” he added.
The first category of graduates, ACCA Affiliates, includes individuals who have completed the necessary examinations to become affiliated with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). Dlamini Noncedo and Maziya Lindelwa were recognized in this category.
Graduates from the SAICA Examinations category included Dlamini Mayibongwe, Gama Sibonelo, Mlipha Nompilo, Myeni Thabsile, Ndzinisa Nonhlanhla, Nkambule Lindokukhanya, and Zubuko Machawe, who is affiliated with PwC.
The Admitted Chartered Accountants (Non-Practising) category recognizes individuals who have met the education and training requirements to become Chartered Accountants but are not engaged in public practice. Graduates in this category included Gama Siphiwa, Jwankie Nokulunga, Khoza Busani D., Kunene Sabelo C., Mabuza Thulani, Mamba Fezekile, Msane Banelile, Muchabaiwa Milliscient, Myeni Ayanda, Nkabinde Lindiwe, and Nkonde Nokukhanya.
Finally, graduates who passed the ESIA Conversion Examination were honoured for their efforts in transitioning into the accounting profession. Graduates in this category included Dlamini Temalangeni, Dlamini Zandile, Mabuza Elizabeth, Makhanya Gugu, Motsa, Fakudze Tanale, Nxumalo Ntombikayise, and Sibeko Thulile.
The graduation ceremony not only highlighted the achievements of the new accountants but also reinforced the significance of ethical leadership and integrity within the profession, setting a hopeful tone for the future of accounting in Eswatini.