Ministry initiates Audit Commission aimed at enhancing transparency within Agriculture sector
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development has taken a significant step towards enhancing transparency and accountability in its operations with the inauguration of its new Ministerial Audit Committee. The ceremony took place at the Kilimo House boardroom, with the Cabinet Secretary, Mutahi Kagwe, leading the proceedings.
Speaking during the launch, Mutahi Kagwe reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to openness and transparency, stating that the Ministry has no issue with auditors exposing issues as long as they are genuine and rooted in evidence. He urged the committee to be proactive in addressing issues, comparing their role to that of a problem solver rather than a mortician.
The Ministerial Audit Committee, formally gazetted on April 15, 2016, under Notice No. 2691 Vol. CXVIII No. 40, is mandated to support the Ministry's Accounting Officers in overseeing risk management, internal controls, governance, and assurance processes. The committee will also monitor the implementation of audit recommendations from both internal and external reviews.
The committee is chaired by William Okari Masita, with members including Kasembeli Wafula Nasiuma, Ann Wangechi Mwathi, Douglas Owiti Nyangidi, and John Kariuki who represents the National Treasury.
Mutahi Kagwe advised the committee to point out risks early so they can be addressed, and to not only uncover problems but also help resolve them. He emphasised the importance of the committee's role in ensuring the financial and operational integrity within the Ministry.
The inauguration of the Ministerial Audit Committee marks a crucial milestone in the Ministry's efforts to promote accountability and transparency in its operations. The committee is expected to play a pivotal role in supporting the Ministry's Accounting Officers, tracking the implementation of audit recommendations, and advising and supporting on matters related to internal controls and governance.
This move comes in accordance with Section 73(5) of the Public Finance Management Act, 2012, and is a testament to the Ministry's commitment to upholding the highest standards of accountability and transparency. The Agriculture Cabinet Secretary, Mutahi Kagwe, expressed his confidence in the new committee, stating that they will play a critical role in enhancing the Ministry's performance and ensuring the effective use of public resources.
The Ministries commitment to transparency extends beyond agriculture operations, as it also prioritizes financial integrity in its business dealings. The Ministerial Audit Committee, tasked with overseeing risk management and internal controls, is instrumental in ensuring the health of the Ministries finances.
