Rustenburg:North West Premier Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi has emphasized the need for public institutions to move beyond compliance and focus on accountability, ethical leadership, and good governance to enhance audit results and service delivery.

According to South African Government News Agency, Mokgosi articulated these points during the Auditor-General South Africa (AGSA) Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) Clean Audit Awards for the 2025/26 financial year. He highlighted that sustainable audit improvements require strong leadership, effective oversight, and timely corrective actions.

While clean audits are indicative of sound financial practices and effective internal controls, Mokgosi stressed that the real success lies in the positive impact of good governance on citizens' lives. He urged public officials to take responsibility for their decisions and outcomes, noting that compliance without accountability fails to address recurring audit issues.

Several entities were recognized for their clean audit results, including the Department of Finance, which achieved its 13th consecutive clean audit, and the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, which received its first. The North West Provincial Legislature and several state-owned entities also received recognition for clean audits.

Mthokozisi Sibisi, AGSA North West Business Unit Leader, explained that the awards acknowledge institutions demonstrating good governance while setting a standard for future improvements. Finance MEC Kenetswe Mosenogi noted that efforts are underway, led by Provincial Treasury, to improve audit results across the province through Project Clean Audit.

The awards celebrated auditees committed to strengthening internal controls and responsible public administration. Premier Mokgosi reaffirmed the necessity of building transparent, ethical institutions that effectively use public resources and deliver tangible community benefits.