Dar es Salaam. On Wednesday, December 4, this year, the city of Arusha became the center of a transformative gathering that could change the trajectory of African economies.
The second conference of the African Association of Accountants General (AAAG) that brought together over 1,500 professionals from across the continent, focused on strengthening the role of accountants in the development of Africa.
Dr Doto Biteko, the Deputy Prime Minister, represented President, Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan at the event, and his words were both a call to action and a reaffirmation of the significance of the accounting profession.
He emphasized that Africa’s future depends heavily on the expertise and integrity of its accountants.
“The African Union (AU) is counting on you,” Dr Biteko, who also doubles as the Energy Minister, told the gathered accountants, urging them to manage their profession with the utmost seriousness and commitment.
His message was clear: accountants are not just number crunchers but vital players in the continent’s economic growth and the responsible management of its vast resources.
“Africa is rich,” Dr Biteko declared, “but if we don’t take the right steps now, this wealth will remain a dream written in books.”
Integrity and professionalism: The cornerstones of accountability
Dr Biteko’s address struck a chord with the audience as he urged accountants to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, even when faced with challenges.
“Your decisions can have a significant impact. You are entrusted with safeguarding the wealth of your countries. Even when your choices come with a cost, stand firm in your commitment to the truth,” he underscored.
In this fast-evolving world, accountants must also adapt to the rapid advancements in technology.
Dr Biteko emphasized the importance of continuous learning and staying ahead of technological trends to remain effective in their roles.
He called on accountants to act as trusted advisors to their leaders, offering insights that could steer Africa toward better governance and more sustainable growth.
Collaboration and knowledge sharing for a prosperous future
The conference also highlighted the importance of collaboration across borders.
Ms Malehlohonolo Mahase, the Chairperson of AAAG and the Accountant General of Lesotho, noted the progress Africa has made in modernizing its accounting systems and emphasized the need for continued knowledge exchange.
“This is a time of change for Africa,” she said. “The sharing of ideas and expertise through this conference has allowed us to collectively enhance the financial management of our nations.”
The primary goal of AAAG, Ms Mahase explained, is to align Africa’s accounting standards with those of the African Union, ensuring that agreements and policies endorsed by the AU are implemented with consistency and effectiveness across member states.
“We must be vigilant in managing our nation’s finances, strengthening financial systems, and curbing corruption,” she added.
Adding: “It is crucial that we embrace technological innovations and continuously upgrade our skills to prevent financial mismanagement.”
Africa’s riches and the power of accountants
The significance of accountants’ roles in Africa cannot be overstated. The continent, with its vast natural resources, requires meticulous financial management to unlock its true potential.
Without the right systems in place, these resources can be misused, and opportunities for development lost.
Mr Fredrick Riaga, the Executive Secretary of AAAG stated: “Accountants are not just managing numbers; they are custodians of Africa’s resources.”
He expressed his appreciation for Tanzania’s successful hosting of the event and recognized the importance of such forums in strengthening the accounting profession across Africa.
The road ahead: Embracing technology and transparency
As the conference concluded, several resolutions were made, with an emphasis on the efficient use of resources and the adoption of common accounting systems across Africa.
The accountants pledged to prioritize transparency and public participation in national budgets to ensure greater accountability in financial governance.
They also recognized the importance of cybersecurity, emphasizing the need to invest in safeguarding financial data from digital threats.
The next AAAG conference is set to take place in Ghana in December 2025, where the African accounting community will continue to share best practices and strategies for advancing the profession and helping Africa fully realize its economic potential.
The story of this conference is one of hope, unity, and vision.
With accountants leading the charge, Africa has the potential to rise from its challenges and harness its wealth for the benefit of all its people.
As Dr. Biteko aptly put it: “The future of Africa is in your hands, and it is in the truth you uphold and the integrity with which you manage the wealth of this continent.”
