Internal Audit Agency praises efforts in reducing audit irregularities

The Internal Audit Agency of the Office of Government Machinery has expressed its appreciation to Boards, Heads of Institutions, Audit Committees, and Internal Auditors for their contributions in reducing audit irregularities across the public sector.

In 2023, there was a notable 32% reduction in these irregularities compared to the previous year, translating to an impressive saving of approximately GHS5 billion.

This accomplishment was highlighted in the 2023 Auditor-General’s report on the public accounts of Ghana, which was submitted to parliament in line with Article 187 Clause 5 of the 1992 constitution.

The Internal Audit Agency emphasized that this achievement signals a gradual improvement in the internal control and governance systems of public institutions.

“It means there is a gradual improvement in the Internal Control and Governance systems of Public Institutions leading to a saving of over GHS5.2 billion of public funds which could have gone down the drain,” the Agency stated.

This reduction not only reflects better financial management but also showcases the dedication of public sector entities to maintaining accountability and transparency.

Special recognition was given to the Boards, Heads of Institutions, Audit Committees, and Internal Auditors of Public Boards, Corporations, and other statutory institutions.

Despite being the highest contributors to total irregularities reported by the Auditor-General in 2023, these entities managed to reduce their irregularities by a remarkable 41.60%.

“Special commendation goes to Boards, Heads of Institutions, Audit Committees and Internal Auditors of Public Boards, Corporations and other Statutory institutions whose irregularities were reduced by 41.60% (about GHS billion),” the Agency noted in a release on Thursday, 1st August, 2024.