The African Association of Accountants General (AAAG) undertook a comprehensive gap analysis to evaluate the current state of Public Financial Management (PFM) and the structures, processes, and practices of the Offices of the Accountant General (OAGs) across 20 member countries. The primary objective of this analysis was to identify discrepancies between existing structures, practices, and best practices in public sector accounting, particularly focusing on the transition to accrual-based accounting as prescribed by International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS).

The analysis revealed significant variations in the titles, hierarchical job levels, and reporting structures of the Offices of the Accountant General. Furthermore, there were noticeable disparities in the legal mandates, budgetary independence, and tenure of the Office of the Accountant General, all of which affect operational effectiveness. The adoption and implementation of Integrated Financial Management Information Systems (IFMIS) and IPSAS were also found to be uneven, with some countries lagging behind due to challenges such as inadequate technical expertise, resistance to change, and high implementation costs.

This report provides a detailed account of these gaps and offers targeted recommendations that can help standardize practices, enhance the scope of legal and operational frameworks, and eventually promote the successful adoption of IPSAS across the member countries of the AAAG. Addressing these gaps is critical to improving the effectiveness, transparency, and accountability of public financial management systems throughout Africa.