Salga urges municipalities to prioritise financial accountability
South African Local Government Association (Salga) Gauteng calls on municipalities to proactively prepare for the upcoming MFMA audits and strengthen financial governance.
SALGA Gauteng appeals to all municipalities in the province to proactively and diligently prepare for the upcoming cycle of the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA) auditing.
According to SALGA, sound financial management practices are critical for effective service delivery and building trust with communities, and clean audit opinions are a testament to municipalities’ commitment to transparent governance.
As the MFMA audit season approaches, SALGA urges Gauteng municipalities to prioritise their financial accountability, strengthen internal controls, and adopt transparent accounting practices.
It stated adequate preparation is paramount to improving audit outcomes and enhancing overall governance and performance of local government.
“SALGA proudly recognises and commends the City of Ekurhuleni and Midvaal Local Municipality for their exemplary achievements in obtaining clean audit opinions in the previous audit cycle.
“These municipalities have shown exceptional financial management practices, ensuring they used efficiently public funds and responsibly for the benefit of their residents,” SALGA stated.
SALGA stated it celebrates the commendable progress made by Rand West Local Municipality in its pursuit of financial excellence.
SALGA said their commitment to continuous improvement in financial management reflects their dedication to delivering quality services to the communities they serve.
“Clean audit opinions are a vital indicator of effective financial governance and stewardship. It not only signifies responsible use of public resources but also fosters public confidence in the administration of municipalities. As representatives of local governments, SALGA recognises the significance of these clean audit achievements and encourages all municipalities to emulate these positive examples,” SALGA said.
To further support municipalities in their preparations for the next MFMA audit cycle, SALGA continues to provide comprehensive capacity-building initiatives, workshops, and resources aimed at strengthening financial management practices.
They are committed to collaborating closely with municipalities to address challenges they may encounter and offer guidance throughout the process.
“Residents deserve efficient and transparent governance, accountable to the communities it serves. Clean audit opinions are a testament to the hard work of municipal officials and staff in ensuring they optimally use public funds to improve service delivery and drive sustainable development,” SALGA stated.
They urge municipalities to embrace this opportunity to enhance their financial management practices and ‘prepare diligently’ for the upcoming MFMA audits.
