The Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda (ICPAU) has staged the 3rd Public Finance Management (PFM) Conference, focusing on enhancing transparency, accountability and efficiency in Uganda’s public financial management systems. 

It took place at the Imperial Resort Beach Hotel in Entebbe. 

The three-day event, themed ‘Public Finance Management Systems for Sustainable Service Delivery’, attracted public sector leaders, policymakers and finance professionals.  

The conference included discussions on programme-based budgeting, sustainable procurement, public governance and the latest developments in public finance reporting. 

Bank of Uganda deputy governor Augustus Nuwagaba delivered the keynote address, praising the ICPAU for its role in the advancement of the accounting profession.  

Nuwagaba emphasised the importance of accountants as guardians of public trust and their responsibility to combat corruption and promote transparency. 

In addition, he urged the adoption of green accounting practices to protect the environment and ensure economic sustainability.  

He highlighted the necessity of embracing digital transformation to increase efficiency, accuracy and accountability in public finance management. 

He added: “Do work Uganda can be proud of. You are at the forefront of Uganda’s development.  

“Accountants can unlock a tenfold growth potential through public finance management.”  

The ICPAU continues to push for PFM reforms including the adoption of International Public Sector Accounting Standards and contributing to global standards-setting. 

It has also submitted recommendations on the Valuation Bill, 2024, and tax amendment bills, reinforcing its advisory role to the government.  

In January, the ICPAU announced the results of the December 2024 examinations, which saw a general decline in pass rates across various courses. 

A total of 6,795 candidates took the exams from 2–6 December, a 6.6% increase from the May 2024 session.