Enhancing effective public sector governance : Effectiveness of audit committees in South African municipalities

Abstract

Audit committees are formed to provide impartial advice on matters of governance, risk management, internal controls and audits, performance management, compliance and financial reporting. It is alarming to see communities deteriorating due to poor municipal services, despite existing audit committees serving as independent advisory boards. Accountability is key to the success of municipalities; individuals opposing the implementation of improved service delivery should be held accountable. This book examines the obstacles that hinder audit committees from effectively executing their duties, giving a thorough analysis and resolutions to the South African service delivery crisis. The book's use of the IQA method reveals overlooked variables that South African municipalities and audit committees must contemplate. This methodological contribution results in the construction of a literature framework to substantiate the focus of the study through the identified themes. This book offers guidelines for municipal audit committees on executing their roles successfully and ethically. It also practically equips regulators, including the National Treasury, provincial treasuries, CoGTA and SALGA, with measures to enhance the efficacy of audit committees. Professional bodies and Best Practices Guidance bodies may augment their standards and ethical codes to guide members serving on audit committees.