Effective, transparent and accountable public financial management is vital for governance reform, ensuring the delivery of high-quality public services and creating fair, sustainable economic and social conditions within a country.
Achieving effective financial management requires the expertise of qualified auditors and accountants.
To advance financial management practices, the Southern African Institute of Government Auditors (SAIGA) has formed a strategic partnership with the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA). This collaboration establishes a formal framework for ongoing cooperation between the two organisations, focusing on the enhancement of public financial management.
Key elements of the partnership include:
- Recognition of qualifications leading to CIPFA exemptions/membership
- Creation of pathways for individuals to achieve Chartered Public Finance Accountant
- Establishment of a community of practice by integrating CIPFA modules into the SAIGA qualification
- Recognition of qualifications leading to SAIGA RGA and performance audit designations/membership, as well as the creation of pathways for individuals holding CPFA who aim to achieve SAIGA professional designations.
- Integration of CIPFA’s public finance curriculum into the SAIGA public finance designation or certification programme, which will be registered with SAQA and lead to CPFA membership.
- Mutual advocacy and promotion of services, sharing best practices, facilitating introductions, and collaborating on courses, CPD, training, and joint regional activities, including thought leadership, research, events and webinars.
“This partnership is a groundbreaking moment for both SAIGA and CIPFA,” stated SAIGA President Phillip Rakgwale. “Our collaboration is distinctive as it is solely concentrated on public sector accounting and auditing. SAIGA and CIPFA are the only institutions globally with such a specialised focus. We are innovating a performance audit qualification recognised by INTOSAI, addressing global trends in service delivery and financial performance. This partnership offers our members international recognition and access to a global network.”
Current holders of SAIGA Registered Government Auditors (RGA) will gain CIPFA recognition, paving the way for future RGA holders to achieve the same. Dual membership opportunities will be available for CIPFA and RGA professionals, and CIPFA holders seeking SAIGA RGA designation and performance audit designations will benefit from reciprocal recognition.
CIPFA International Director Khalid Hamid stated, “We are delighted to sign this Memorandum of Understanding with SAIGA. This partnership marks a significant step forward in our joint mission to advance public financial management. Our goal is to foster collaboration, share best practices, and build a robust community of public finance professionals in South Africa. By integrating CIPFA modules into SAIGA’s qualifications and certification programmes, we aim to enhance financial management and governance. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration with positive impacts for our members in both regions.”
SAIGA CEO Russel Morena added, “This collaboration coincides with SAIGA’s 36th anniversary, and we couldn’t be more excited. Starting January 2025, RGA members will hold dual membership with SAIGA and CIPFA. This partnership will also significantly enhance SAIGA’s contribution to the professionalisation of public service.”
