By Sizwe Dlamini
The Minister of Finance, Neal Rijkenberg, has unveiled the Kingdom’s inaugural Audit Committee, appointed by the Ministry of Finance to enhance financial oversight in Eswatini.
This strategic move aims to improve fiscal discipline and governance within the Eswatini government.
The newly established Audit Committee is set to play a crucial role in promoting transparency, accountability, and service delivery across the civil service, ultimately impacting the lives of all EmaSwati.
The committee will work closely with the Internal Audit Office and other relevant bodies to ensure that all financial practices align with established laws and standards, fostering a culture of accountability within the civil service.
Officially unveiled at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Mbabane, the new Audit Committee comprises six distinguished individuals, each bringing extensive experience and expertise in public policy, financial management, and governance.
The committee will be chaired by Mbongeni Bhembe and includes the following members: Mbuso Simelane, Hlob’sile Dlamini, Nomusa Dlamini, and June Elphas Khanyile, with Portia Dumsile Mamba serving as the Secretary (Director).
Speaking during the unveiling, Rijkenberg emphasized that the establishment of this Audit Committee is rooted in the Public Finance Management Act of 2017, particularly Section 82 as gazetted in Legal Notice 134 of 2024.
“This legal framework mandates the formation of an independent Audit Committee to provide oversight and ensure adherence to financial regulations and standards. The committee is tasked with supporting Controlling Officers in their oversight responsibilities, reviewing reports from the Internal Audit Office, and ensuring that recommendations are implemented to enhance operational efficiency,” Rijkenberg said.
Rijkenberg further noted that the members were selected based on their extensive backgrounds in public policy design, financial management, risk management, and understanding of government operations.
“Their collective expertise positions them well to oversee and enhance the effectiveness of internal controls and financial reporting processes within government entities,” he added.
Addressing the committee’s primary objectives, Rijkenberg stated, “The committee’s primary objectives include strengthening fiscal discipline by ensuring rigorous oversight and adherence to financial management practices; enhancing governance processes through independent review and assessment of financial reporting and internal controls; improving transparency and accountability by fostering an environment of openness and integrity in financial practices; and promoting effective service delivery by addressing unresolved issues and ensuring that audit recommendations are acted upon.”