The Parliamentary Initiatives Network (PIN) has today launched a guide to understanding audit reports to aid organizations and individuals to read and understand key issues in the various reports.
The guide looks at the various types of public sector audits, the public audit process, and types of issues raised by the auditor, audit opinions issued and avenues for public engagement. It then details a set of important questions that ought to direct readers in identifying and finding the most critical information within the reports.
According to Mr. John Kinuthia, who is a Research Analyst at IBP-Kenya, “Audit reports should be made simple, easier and clearer for the public to understand.” He called on the public to participate in the auditing process especially the youth and point out whenever a problem is identified.
His sentiments were echoed by Mr. Edward Ouko who said, “We should do short, sharp audits on spending and communicate in a language that can be understood by all, especially the ordinary mwananchi.”
Audit reports have in the past been released but no action has been taken to ensure the recommendations are put into action despite the fact that audits are key in improving our budget and spending and ensuring a more accountable environment in the management of public resources.
“We need to make sure that audit reports are budgeted, recorded, and they hit the ground straight,” said Edward Ouko.
Kenya’s Auditor General, Mr. Edward Ouko, did not shy away from mentioning the challenges facing the auditing sector. Resources were mentioned as the key challenge in carrying out audits and in hiring more auditors to aid in carrying out auditing process in the various regions in the country.
The media was also urged to make a follow-up whenever a report is released to ensure that legal and constitutional measures are taken.