The Eswatini Institute of Accountants (ESIA) has secured a titan of African finance to lead its upcoming Ethics Breakfast Meeting on April 17, 2026.
Prof. Wiseman Nkuhlu, a man whose name is synonymous with the very foundation of professional accounting in Southern Africa, will take center stage at the Sibanesami Hotel. Under the theme “Harnessing Ancient Wisdom to Energise Ethical Leadership,” Nkuhlu is set to deliver a high-stakes keynote that bridges the gap between traditional integrity and the digital-age complexities of the 21st century.
The significance of Prof. Nkuhlu’s presence cannot be overstated as he holds the historic distinction of being the first Black African to qualify as a Chartered Accountant in South Africa. He hasn’t just witnessed the evolution of the profession, he has been its architect through a career that spans the highest echelons of corporate and political governance.
His vast experience includes serving as the former Chairman of KPMG South Africa and as an Economic Adviser to former President Thabo Mbeki. Furthermore, as the former CEO of the NEPAD Secretariat, he was a central figure in driving Africa’s development agenda on the global stage.
One of his most vital contributions to the current financial climate is his role as a truth-teller regarding institutional failure. Having authored the seminal work, “Enabler or Victim? – KPMG (SA), State Capture, and Purposeful Leadership,” Prof. Nkuhlu is expected to provide an unflinching look at how systems crumble when ethics are sidelined.
For Eswatini’s financial sector, this isn’t just a lecture but a masterclass in rebuilding public trust. As the Kingdom seeks to strengthen its own internal controls and transparency, Nkuhlu’s experience navigating the fallout of South Africa’s “State Capture” era offers a vital blueprint for local professionals.
This initiative comes at a time when the accountant’s role is being scrutinized more than ever. With the Senate recently echoing concerns that economic growth is not reaching the ordinary citizen, the need for accountants to act as custodians of truth is paramount.
The symposium will move beyond the balance sheet to focus on integrating ethical wisdom into modern practice and establishing purposeful leadership within global best practices. In an age of rapid technological change, the ESIA’s decision to headline a leader of Prof. Nkuhlu’s calibre reinforces the message that while tools change, the human integrity behind the numbers must remain unshakeable.
Attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to purchase Prof. Nkuhlu’s seminal works on-site to further explore his insights into ethical governance and personal impact.
His critical analysis of institutional integrity, “Purposeful Leadership for Africa in the 21st Century”, will be available for E300, while his reflective work, “A Life of Purpose”, will be on sale for E250.
Event & Registration Details
Venue: Sibanesami Hotel
Date: April 17, 2026
Member Fee: E605.00
Non-Member Fee: E710.00
Booking Deadline: April 14, 2026