Mombasa: Over 600 auditors from both the public and private sectors are gathered in the coastal city of Mombasa for the 22nd Annual Internal Audit Conference to deliberate on governance, risk management, and internal control practices. During the occasion, internal auditors were challenged to embrace emerging technologies to enhance efficiency in their work. The week-long forum, themed ‘Embrace Change, Elevate Trust and Influence Progress,’ is organized by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Kenya. The conference aims at deliberating on the evolving role of internal auditors in strengthening accountability and transparency within institutions.

According to Kenya News Agency, the seminar also coincides with Internal Audit Awareness Month, which seeks to sensitise stakeholders on the evolving role and importance of internal auditors in institutional governance. Speaking during the official opening of the seminar, Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai commended the IIA for its efforts in enhancing professionalism and promoting good governance. ‘The internal audit function plays a critical role in managing risks and evaluating internal controls to safeguard public resources,’ said Governor Lomorukai. ‘As the country continues to demand transparency and accountability, auditors remain key to restoring and maintaining public trust.’

The governor further called for the independence of internal audit departments within county governments, stressing that independence is key to effective oversight. ‘I want internal audit units to be independent and actively engaged in risk management across county departments. Their findings must inform decision-making to ensure proper use of public resources,’ he added. The governor also emphasised the need to integrate emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) into the audit process, noting that Kenya must remain competitive with international standards.

In attendance was Dr. Sammy Kimunguyi, the Internal Auditor General at the National Treasury, who echoed the views of sector leaders emphasising the need for robust audit frameworks and institutional reforms to promote financial accountability. Dr. Joyce Omina, the chief executive officer of the IIA, noted that the seminar comes at a time when the profession is undergoing significant changes. ‘We are here to celebrate 22 years of growth and transformation. Our theme reflects the shift in our industry, including new global standards introduced in January,’ said Dr. Omina. ‘As trusted advisors, we must continue to influence progress by upholding ethical practices and adapting to change.’

IIA Chairperson Lilian Mwangi highlighted the strategic direction of the internal audit profession, calling on practitioners to expand their competencies and adopt new technologies. ‘We are discussing the internal auditor of the future. This professional must be tech-savvy, data-driven, and collaborative,’ said Mwangi. ‘We want our stakeholders to see us beyond compliance. We are strategic advisors who provide assurance and add value through effective use of data analytics.’