The Office of the Auditor-General is advocating for significant improvements within the Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA) regarding its financial practices. This call for reform follows ongoing issues highlighted in multiple audit reports over the years, which indicate a troubling pattern of receiving disclaimer opinions due to inadequate record-keeping, missing documents, and unresolved financial discrepancies.
During a recent session with the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, Assistant Auditor-General Moshin Ali expressed that these persistent audit challenges have diminished public trust in AMA’s ability to effectively manage government funds. Ali emphasized the necessity for routine preparation and review of monthly management accounts at the board level to enhance transparency and ensure continuity especially during transitions in staffing or leadership.
He pointed out the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date financial records, and encouraged AMA to leverage its investment in advanced accounting software to fortify its financial management capabilities. Ali noted that without consistent usage of modern accounting systems, it remains difficult for oversight bodies to verify the reliability of AMA’s financial data.
This situation echoes the concerns previously raised regarding MMA’s financial management struggles. In earlier instances, AMA officials, including Financial Controller Ashika Naidu, acknowledged issues rooted in outdated manual processes, which had resulted in poor documentation and inconsistencies. However, the authority has taken steps toward modernization by transitioning to digital systems aimed at rectifying these financial management challenges.
A hopeful outlook emerges as AMA continues to address pre-existing concerns in its financial practices while also implementing technology-driven solutions. As they work on their Strategic Development Plan for 2024-2026, which focuses on supporting farmers and enhancing agricultural practices, there is potential for significant improvement in financial accountability and operational integrity within the authority, ultimately benefiting Fiji’s agricultural sector.
This ongoing transformation represents a proactive approach to governance, signifying a commitment to strengthen financial management and restore public confidence in the authority’s operations.
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