The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Public Works and Infrastructure has achieved a clean audit from the Auditor-General South Africa (AGSA) for the first time in the department’s history.
The department said its own review of historical records confirmed that there was no previous recorded clean audit outcome, making the latest achievement a significant milestone.
The department attributed the outcome to exercising accountability and enforcing tighter and reformed internal measures.
“This clean audit is a boost of confidence that the Provincial Infrastructure Council will play in streamlining the delivery of infrastructure across KZN, which is being currently formed, and where KZN Public Works and Infrastructure is a secretariat,” the department said in a statement on Tuesday.
The department said securing its first clean audit also signals its commitment to becoming an evolved entity, one which can be seen as a trustworthy partner for the private sector, investors, developers and major financial institutions to effectively collaborate with for the aim of unlocking endless infrastructure development and growth potential.
When the MEC for Public Works and Infrastructure Martin Meyer was appointed to the portfolio two years ago, he identified the attainment of a clean audit outcome as one of his key priorities through enforcing stringent financial controls.
Meyer dedicated the achievement to ordinary residents of KwaZulu-Natal and stakeholders who have pledged ongoing support for the department’s efforts to turning around, despite "several attempts by some who have sought to destabilise these efforts".
The MEC also acknowledged the department’s Head of Department, Dr Vish Govender, and officials for their contribution to achieving the milestone.
“Govender has led a relentless and unwavering campaign to ensure that all the department’s functionality and officials align with the historical and remarkable milestone that has been achieved,” Meyer said. – SAnews.gov.za
