For the first time since its inception in 2011, the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), which is an agency of the dti, also obtained a clean audit

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, November 2, 2017/APO Group/ -- 

The Department of Trade and Industry (the dti)’s zero tolerance to corruption has led to the department acquiring a clean 2016-17 audit report from the Auditor-General. This was said by the Director-General of the dti, Mr Lionel October. October was speaking on the side-lines of the National A’s 2016-17 Clean Audit Awards breakfast hosted by the office of the Auditor-General in Pretoria today.

“Our zero tolerance attitude towards corruption, an increased control environment and strong governance practices, has led to the department getting a clean audit,” said October.

He added the dti plays a critical role in the economy by attracting investments, creating jobs and providing support to different sectors in the economy. It is therefore imperative that the department demonstrates accountability and shows that it can use tax payer’s money effectively.

Although a Clean Audit has been achieved, October noted that the department is always striving for continuous improvement. However, this shows that we have strong systems in place and the budget is being used for its intended purpose.

“We run a clean administration and there is no corruption,” said October.

According to October, the department has robust systems to manage the payments of suppliers within 30 days including the monitoring and payment of incentives, which accounts for around 70% of the department’s budget.

October said that all of the dti stakeholders, should draw comfort from the clean audit as it reflects that the money is being used effectively.

For the first time since its inception in 2011, the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC), which is an agency of the dti, also obtained a clean audit. Its Commissioner Mr Rory Voller described the clean audit as a foundation for more work to be done. He added that maintaining the clean audit and getting better as an organisation was the next step after acquiring the clean audit.

“This audit clearly shows that in terms of corporate governance and financial prudence we are on the right track. The ICT modernisation and turnaround strategies have paid off,” added Voller.

Other agencies of the dti that received clean audits are the National Gambling Board, National Lotteries Commission, National Lotteries Distribution Trust Fund, Competition Tribunal and the National Consumer Tribunal.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Department of Trade and Industry, South Africa.