Pretoria: The Auditor-General of South Africa has called on the government to strengthen efforts to improve accountability and service delivery, while also noting areas of progress that indicate potential for significant reform across the public sector.
According to South African Government News Agency, Auditor-General Tsakani Maluleke, during the release of the 2024-25 General Report for national and provincial departments, public entities and legislatures in Pretoria, indicated that there has been minimal improvement in audit results during the first year of the 7th administration. Out of 417 auditees evaluated, only 151 achieved clean audits.
Maluleke pointed out that numerous institutions, particularly high-impact auditees responsible for critical sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, and energy, continue to face challenges with basic financial and performance management. These entities, which account for most government expenditure, have been unable to produce credible financial reports or comply with legislation.
The report identified that 266 auditees failed to achieve clean audits and oversee 88% of the total expenditure budget. Furthermore, 45 auditees experienced regressions in their audit outcomes, including several high-impact institutions managing significant financial resources.
Maluleke emphasized that the audit process remains crucial in enhancing transparency and accountability. Through the Material Irregularity (MI) process, substantial improvements have been seen, with financial losses amounting to R2.41 billion being prevented or recovered. Practical interventions have also improved the utilization of public resources, such as reactivating underutilized health facilities and converting unused buses into mobile libraries.
The report also notes improvements in reducing irregular and wasteful expenditure compared to the previous year, suggesting that tighter controls and increased awareness are starting to have an impact. Despite ongoing challenges, some declining trends indicate that consistent application of corrective measures can lead to positive outcomes.
Maluleke stressed that enhancing institutional capability, governance, and oversight will be essential to achieving further progress. She highlighted that many shortcomings are due to inconsistent implementation and weak accountability, rather than a lack of legislation or funding. Addressing these issues would enable government institutions to fulfill their mandates more effectively and improve outcomes for citizens.
Even with persistent issues such as non-compliance with legislation, procurement weaknesses, and infrastructure delays, the report emphasizes that solutions are within reach. The successes achieved through the MI process illustrate how decisive action, ethical leadership, and effective oversight can lead to real improvements in service delivery and financial management.
Maluleke urged government leaders to build on these gains and foster a culture of performance, transparency, and accountability. She reaffirmed the AGSA's commitment to supporting the public sector through its audits and expanded powers, aiming to strengthen public institutions and ensure that resources are used effectively to enhance the lives of South Africans.