By James Alomu

SOROTI – Certified public accountants (CPAs) from the Teso and Karamoja regions have called for increased public awareness and education on proper financial management practices. The call was made during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at Suncity Amusement Park over the weekend, where accountants from the two regions gathered to discuss issues impacting their profession.

Andrew Olupot Olego, Chairperson of the Certified Public Accountants in Teso and Karamoja, emphasized the importance of public sensitization to foster better financial management at both the public and private sector levels. According to Olupot, effective mentorship and training of competent accountants is crucial for improving the management of financial resources in the regions.

"By producing and mentoring qualified accountants, we aim to contribute to better financial governance and management across both sectors," Olupot stated during his speech at the AGM.

Olupot also addressed the ongoing challenges faced by accountants, particularly the unwarranted criticism related to accusations of embezzlement. He noted that the majority of these accusations arise from the actions of unqualified individuals, who lack the professional certification required to handle financial matters properly. Olupot stressed that certified accountants should not bear the blame for resource misuse that often stems from unqualified personnel.

"Most of the time, the misuse of resources is not the fault of certified accountants, but rather the result of unqualified individuals who fail to manage public and private funds properly," Olupot explained.

In his address, Steven Omoding Eupa, the Assistant Resident City Commissioner for Soroti City, urged accountants to prioritize transparency in their professional conduct. Omoding underscored the importance of transparent financial management to prevent the misallocation and mismanagement of public funds.

"You must ensure that public funds are not diverted into the wrong hands," Omoding advised the accountants. "Your role is crucial in maintaining public trust and accountability."

The AGM provided a platform for accountants in the Teso and Karamoja regions to discuss the challenges they face and brainstorm solutions to improve financial accountability. The meeting also highlighted efforts to strengthen the accounting profession, emphasizing the need for better regulation and training to ensure that financial resources are effectively managed at both the local and national levels.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment from accountants in the region to uphold professional integrity and work in tandem with government efforts to safeguard public resources.