135 + delegates from 10 African countries attend practical workshop on essentials of transition to accrual- IPSAS accounting
The African Association of Accountants General (AAAG) has wrapped up a vibrant three-day workshop on the Essentials of Accrual IPSAS Adoption, where 138 public sector finance professionals from 10 African nations gathered for immersive, hands-on training in one of Africa’s most transformative public financial management reforms.
From 11–13 March 2026, the David Livingstone Safari Lodge and Spa became a hub of learning as the workshop empowered practitioners with actionable tools for the shift to accrual accounting under IPSAS. Participants explored IPSAS 33 and IPSAS 3 and delved into forward-looking topics, such as climate-related disclosures under IPSASB SRS 1, signalling a move toward more transparent and future-ready public financial reporting.
From the outset, the workshop stood out for its strong engagement and practical orientation. Participants tackled real-world scenarios, from drafting opening financial statements to weaving climate risk into reporting frameworks. The atmosphere was alive with collaboration, peer learning, and a shared drive to turn knowledge into action. The result was a highly interactive learning environment, marked by strong peer exchange and a clear focus on execution.
“This workshop comes at a very important time for Africa,” said AAAG CEO Fredrick Riaga in his closing remarks. “Governments are increasingly recognising that strong public financial management systems are the backbone of sustainable economic development. The transition to accrual-based IPSAS is one of the most significant reforms of our time.”
He commended the high turnout and commitment from participating countries, noting that the presence of delegates demonstrated “a shared commitment to strengthening public financial management, fiscal transparency, and accountability across our continent.”
The workshop also underscored a broader shift in public finance. Beyond compliance, governments are now expected to produce decision-useful financial information, manage risks proactively, and align financial systems with long-term sustainability goals – including climate resilience.
As the workshop ended, participants departed Livingstone equipped with actionable roadmaps and fresh skills to champion IPSAS implementation back home. AAAG pledged ongoing support through future capacity-building and welcomed delegates to its 4th Annual Conference in December 2026 in Eswatini, where Africa’s journey in public financial management will take its next steps.
