Karel Frans and his team are proud of the role that they play in contributing to the district municipality achieving 13 consecutive clean audits. And, in the recent ‘audit of Audit’ by independent quality assurance assessors, the team achieved a ‘General Conformance’ rating, the highest measurement of performance in this particular audit.
“We have a small team with the same ‘can do’ attitude found in the municipality – we punch way above our weight!”
Karel confirms that due to the sheer scale of a municipality, not everything can be audited. This is not unique to local government but applies equally in the private sector.
“It is therefore important that we audit processes in addition to transactions. If the processes are in place and adhered to, compliance follows. If we’re all doing what we’re supposed to do – that is, applying the applicable laws and regulations accurately and consistently – solid governance is the result and with this comes service delivery”.
The audit responsibility extends beyond transactions and includes everyday necessities which impact on service delivery, ranging from tracking performance reviews, the appointment of suppliers, staff development and any area that directly or indirectly contributes to achieving Weskus Distrik’s Integrated Development Plan.
The role of Karel’s team extends beyond ticking the boxes.
“The advisory role that we play is a value-adding service. We also assist other municipalities in areas such as conducting risk management engagements and providing investigation services”.
So, who audits the auditor?
“Beyond risk management, internal controls and governance, ultimately, it comes down to service delivery. Therefore, your community has the last say about whether you have done what you were supposed to do or not. Non-compliance and getting it consistently wrong can result in a municipality going under administration or being labelled as ‘dysfunctional’. Either of these have a devastating effect on the community which can lead to a loss of hope and potentially, unrest. Getting it right leads to stability and the flow of investments needed to grow the economy and create jobs. Getting it wrong is simply not an option”.
Karel Frans
Manager: Internal Audit
Weskus Distrik.