Value for Money: Public Entities Show 7% Improvement, Says AG Report

In 2024, the percentage of public institutions receiving unqualified opinions regarding value-for-money auditing climbed to 66%, up from 59% in 2023—a growth of seven percent. This statistic was shared by Auditor General Alexis Kamuhire during a presentation to Parliament on Tuesday, May 6th. His annual report covers public finances managed between July 1st, 2023, and June 30th, 2024. Value-for-money assessments evaluate how economically, effectively, and efficiently public resources have been utilized. Additionally reviewed were financial statements; here, the auditor noted that public bodies achieving unblemished reviews surged to 94% in 2024 from 92% previously. Similarly, those obtaining clear audit endorsements concerning adherence to legislation improved marginally to 75% from 69%. On implementing audit suggestions, there was a slight uptick to 60% against 59%. Furthermore, through proactive audits conducted this past year, approximately RwF9.3 billion out of almost RwF9.4 billion identified inaccuracies since 2023 had been rectified or corrected thanks to preventative measures taken by the Office of the Auditor General. Moreover, illegal spending declined significantly by 28%, dropping sharply from RwF2.57 billion in 2023 down to just RwF2 billion in 2024. Auditor General Kamuhire disclosed that his team examined 239 government agencies and generated 242 comprehensive financial evaluations alongside 243 regulatory oversight analyses—up considerably from the prior years’ outputs of 222 detailed examinations and 220 legal compliance checks respectively. Additionally, they executed 18 efficiency appraisals concentrating on critical sectoral priorities within the nation, performed seven IT system inspections emphasizing technological advancements, plus undertook ten specialized inquiries prompted by stakeholder demands. He highlighted ongoing concerns like prolonged contractual processes, halted building initiatives, and inactive equipment but acknowledged progress made towards reducing idled asset values—from Rwf15 billion at one point back then down now to merely Rwf7 billion currently. Urgently calling upon all concerned parties involved in executing developmental schemes to hasten their operational timelines and enhance citizen services accordingly, he stated: "Generally speaking, improvements can indeed be observed across our administration of public monies although certain aspects require urgent attention particularly speeding up development activities and ensuring superior customer care."

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