By Kassahun Chane
The Ministry of Finance has announced that it has recognized 12 federal budget offices for their outstanding audit performance. These awards celebrate the offices that have effectively utilized government funds for their designated purposes.
During a recent consultation forum for finance and internal audit officers from federal institutions, Minister of Finance Ahmed Shide highlighted the progress made since the 2013 fiscal year, noting significant improvements in the ministry's operations and collaboration with stakeholders.
Minister Shide also shared that by the 2015 fiscal year, 53 percent of institutions had received favorable audit opinions without any criticisms. He emphasized the Ministry of Finance's commitment to its responsibilities, which includes implementing various laws, offering capacity-building training, and closely monitoring the financial sector to ensure it operates efficiently, transparently, and accountably.
This dedication has contributed to the enhanced performance of federal budget offices. Abaynesh Teshome, head of the ministry's inspection department, remarked on the positive changes observed, particularly in universities that previously faced audit challenges. The ongoing efforts of the Ministry and its partners have led to significant improvements in these institutions' adherence to financial plans.
During the forum, awards were presented to those offices that achieved flawless audit reports for the 2015 fiscal year, including the Office of the House of Federation, the Ministry of Peace, and several others, as recognized by the Ministry of Finance.