2nd AAAG Conference 2024, Arusha – Tanzania

Arusha, Tanzania | 2–6 December 2024

By Shiloh Kabwe

As the golden sun set behind Mount Meru in the heart of Arusha, Tanzania, the African Association of Accountants General (AAAG) concluded its 2nd Annual Conference with pride, renewed purpose, and deep gratitude. Held from 2nd to 6th December 2024, this pivotal gathering drew over 2,000 participants from across the continent under the powerful theme “Building Public Trust in PFM Systems for Sustainable Growth.” Endorsed by the African Union and hosted in partnership with the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania, the conference brought together Accountants General, senior government officials, public finance management (PFM) experts, development partners, and technocrats in a bold collective mission: to transform the landscape of public financial governance across Africa.

The opening ceremony was marked by the esteemed presence of Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, whose keynote address signaled a resounding call for stronger institutions and citizen trust. The conference was enriched by contributions from dignitaries such as the Hon. Minister of Finance Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba, and Dr. Samuel Munzele Maimbo, Vice President at the World Bank, who delivered a compelling keynote on governance and the role of PFM in bridging the trust gap in Africa.

Over the course of three action-packed days, delegates explored twelve core topics and four concurrent sessions, hosted across two impressive venues—Nyasa and Simba Halls. These sessions featured 15 expert speakers and 42 discussants, touching on a wide range of pressing issues, from digital transformation and illicit financial flows to sustainability, artificial intelligence, citizen engagement, and strengthening fiduciary oversight. Through dialogue and debate, participants examined how to re-engineer Africa’s public finance systems to restore citizen confidence and ensure transparent, accountable service delivery.

In her heartfelt closing remarks, Mrs. Malehlohonolo Mahase, Chairperson of AAAG, summarized the spirit of the event: “Africa needs us now more than ever—to account for her wealth, collect her revenue, and stop illicit financial flows. The wind of change is fast approaching. We must arm ourselves with new knowledge—even if uncomfortable—because it is utterly necessary.” She encouraged all attendees to return to their countries and not only apply new skills, but to challenge outdated practices and foster innovation within their institutions.

Throughout the week, the conference documented a range of key challenges. These included corruption and illicit financial flows, technological resistance and cybersecurity vulnerabilities, skills shortages, inefficient budgeting practices, and weak accountability mechanisms. In response, a series of ambitious resolutions were adopted, calling for the strengthening of legal frameworks, integration of modern technologies such as AI and cybersecurity, professional development of public finance officers, promotion of citizen engagement in budgeting, and the adoption of innovative financing mechanisms including blended finance and public-private partnerships. These resolutions were complemented by opportunities identified in areas such as digital transformation, regional collaboration, alignment with sustainability goals, asset optimization, and efforts to rebuild public trust.

Special moments included recognition of retiring leaders such as Mr. Marcel Mukishimana of Rwanda and Mr. Sunil Ramdeem of Mauritius, whose contributions to the profession were warmly applauded. The conference also celebrated the appointments of Ms. Albertina Taina Nankela of Namibia and Mr. Jean Baptiste of Rwanda as new Accountants General, ushering in a new era of dynamic leadership in public financial management across the continent.

Beyond the formal sessions, the warmth of Tanzanian hospitality enveloped all delegates. From cultural entertainment and networking cocktails to excursions to iconic destinations like the Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha National Park, and Lake Duluti, the conference experience was enriched by the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Tanzania. The city of Arusha proved a fitting host—a crossroads of ideas and inspiration nestled at the foot of Kilimanjaro.

As the final curtain fell, AAAG announced that the 3rd Annual Conference will be held in Accra, Ghana from 1st to 5th December 2025, continuing the journey of collaboration, innovation, and transformation. The 2nd AAAG Annual Conference was not just a convening—it was a milestone in Africa’s public finance story. It reminded every participant that good governance is not an aspiration but an obligation, and that through cooperation, innovation, and integrity, Africa can and will build institutions worthy of its people’s trust. AAAG extends deep appreciation to the Government and people of Tanzania, to our generous sponsors and brilliant speakers, and to every delegate who made this event an outstanding success. The journey continues, and the future of African public financial governance is brighter than ever.

AAAG thanks the Government and people of Tanzania, our sponsors, speakers, and every delegate who made this conference a resounding success.

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