Several members of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) are currently participating in governance meetings and training organized by the SADC Organisation of Public Accounts Committees (SADCOPAC) in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
As per a press release from Parliament, the delegation includes the Secretary-General of SADCOPAC, Mr. Wynter Mmolotsi, along with PAC committee members Mr. Pono Moatlhodi and Mr. Polson Majaga. They will be engaged in various activities such as the peer review program, discussions on subcommittee establishment, and training sessions tailored for PAC members and similar oversight committees.
The primary objective of this training, aimed at both PAC members and supporting officials, is to enhance their skills and knowledge in parliamentary oversight. It seeks to empower them with the necessary tools and insights to conduct effective oversight processes.
According to the press release, the governance meetings are intended to promote effective decision-making, collaboration, and communication among SADCOPAC members. Additionally, the peer review program aims to bolster accountability and effectiveness in parliamentary oversight across the SADC region.
Furthermore, the training sessions will facilitate mutual assessment among members to identify areas for improvement in oversight practices. They will also encourage a culture of transparency and accountability through constructive peer reviews, as well as the sharing of successful oversight strategies.
The establishment and operation of subcommittees are expected to streamline efforts, focus expertise, and enhance collaboration in key areas of parliamentary oversight within the SADC region. These subcommittees will cover thematic areas such as budget scrutiny, audit examination, legal and regulatory affairs, technology in oversight, and capacity building.
Moreover, the meetings will leverage diverse expertise within SADCOPAC to address specific challenges in public financial management. They will facilitate in-depth discussions and targeted actions in crucial oversight areas.
PAC members are scheduled to return home on April 20.
