AfIIA 2025 conference forges stronger internal audit bonds and announces 2026 Cape Town hosting
The recent 11th African Federation of Institutes of Internal Auditors (AFIIA) conference in Kigali, Rwanda, marked a notable gathering of internal audit professionals, executives, and policymakers, all dedicated to enhancing the effectiveness of internal auditing across the continent and beyond. Under the theme "Building Bridges, Inspiring Change," the event took place during International Internal Audit Month in May, reflecting a global initiative to recognise the importance of the internal audit function in governance and accountability.
Kicking off the AFIIA week, a leadership workshop on 25 May 2025 brought together delegates from all 28 IIA chapters and affiliates across Africa. This proactive session, facilitated by notable figures from the IIA Global Affiliate Relations team, aimed to strengthen the profession through legislative advocacy, strategic reforms, and sustainable value for members. A critical focus was placed on the Professional Recognition & Oversight of Internal Auditing Act (PRO IA Act), which aims to provide a robust legal foundation to elevate the profession and foster accountability in governance across African nations.
Indeed, discussions within the workshop highlighted the necessity for democratising certification pathways in internal auditing. As the need for accessible and locally relevant solutions became clear, attendees underscored the importance of developing tiered fee structures tailored to facilitate equitable access for professionals in underserved markets. Such measures will work to dismantle systemic barriers, ensuring integrity and rigorous qualification standards are maintained.
As the AFIIA week proceeded, it featured a Governance Forum that attracted a wide variety of participants, including representatives from the Auditor Generals' offices and C-suite executives. This forum posed critical questions about the internal audit profession's role in preventing governance failures, urging auditors to transition from passive observers to active strategic enablers. Panel discussions explored challenges such as political interference and institutional pushback, alongside advocating for merit-based appointments for Chief Audit Executives (CAEs). The consensus stressed that for internal auditing to retain credibility, auditors must proactively engage in their organisations and showcase their value through decisive actions.
A noteworthy component of the conference was a parallel university programme dedicated to cybersecurity, which addressed the growing threats facing audit functions. Led by IIA SA Board Chair Lusanda Ncoliwe, the session provided insights on integrating cyber risk evaluations into audit processes and encouraged continuous awareness of emerging threats. As cybersecurity becomes a vital consideration for all organisations, internal auditors are increasingly positioned as key partners in enhancing organisational resilience against digital risks.
The AFIIA conference didn't lack in cultural richness, commencing with a vibrant display of traditional Rwandan dance that set an energetic tone. Throughout the event, participants were exposed to a multifaceted agenda covering topics from digitisation and AI to ESG audits and risk management. Significant emphasis was placed on human aspects, including strategies for addressing workplace stress in high-pressure audit environments.
A remarkable milestone was achieved with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between AFIIA and IIA Global, reaffirming support for advocacy initiatives and amplifying the visibility of internal auditors in Africa. This partnership aims to empower professionals and reinforce the crucial contributions of internal audit to good governance.
In a gesture of appreciation, IIA SA hosted a dinner for South African delegates to celebrate their commitment to advancing the internal audit profession across the continent. This event also served as an opportunity to foster camaraderie and prepare for the exciting prospect of hosting the next AFIIA conference in Cape Town in 2026—a first for South Africa. Delegates were invited to engage at IIA SA’s exhibition stand, which showcased the forthcoming event’s potential and highlighted the rich South African culture.
As the conference concluded, leadership transitions were celebrated, with the outgoing AFIIA Governing Council honouring members for their steadfast dedication. Incoming Chairperson Thokozile Kuwali articulated her vision for the federation's future, focusing on unity, integrity, and transformational leadership. The enthusiasm radiating from delegates affirms a collective commitment to the future of internal auditing in Africa, underlining the necessity of continuous innovation and proactive engagement in a swiftly evolving landscape.
The AFIIA 2025 conference not only strengthened existing bonds within the internal audit community but also laid a vibrant groundwork for continued collaboration and development as it eagerly anticipates the AFIIA 2026 conference.