Government Tightens Internal Audit Standards

Ms. MUKUWA said internal auditors should go beyond producing technically correct reports and instead serve as trusted advisers who identify risks that could affect service delivery and value for money.

She said auditors should also communicate their findings clearly and follow up to ensure agreed corrective measures are implemented.

Ms. MUKUWA announced that public service internal auditors will undergo standardised training and certification through NIPA in line with Public Service Management Division –PSMD- Circular No. B4 of 2026.

About 350 internal auditors are expected to undergo the training, with approximately 50 officers forming the first cohort.

She said the standardised training would ensure that auditors across ministries, provinces and government agencies apply comparable professional standards, quality requirements and assurance practices.

Meanwhile, PSMD Permanent Secretary LOIS MULUBE said the programme is part of the Public Service Competence Development and Certification Strategy launched on June 30, 2026.

Ms. MULUBE said the strategy makes structured training and certification an integral part of public service career development.

She said the ability of public officers to implement Government development plans effectively is critical to achieving national growth targets.

Ms. MULUBE said continuous training is particularly important for specialised functions such as internal audit because auditors play a key role in safeguarding public resources, institutional controls and accountability.

And Institute of Internal Auditors Zambia President LUBINDA NAMILUKO called on public institutions to strengthen compliance with global internal audit standards.

Mr. NAMILUKO said internal auditors require adequate resources, access to information and independence to effectively carry out their responsibilities.

He said every kwacha appropriated by Parliament is expected to be used for its intended purpose with economy, efficiency, effectiveness and integrity.

Mr. NAMILUKO also called for greater attention to emerging risks, including cybersecurity, as Government services, payments and records increasingly move to digital platforms.

He said the Institute of Internal Auditors Zambia will continue working with NIPA, the Office of the Controller of Internal Audit and other stakeholders on training, professional certification and continuing professional development.

The five-day programme covers leadership, governance, risk management, internal controls, assurance and advisory services, ICT governance and cybersecurity.