On 3rd September 2024, a monitoring team from the Regional Controller and Accountant General Department (CAGD) visited the Asutifi North District Assembly as part of a routine assessment of financial management and payroll practices. The visit aimed to evaluate the district’s adherence to national financial regulations, review internal controls, and provide recommendations for improvement.
Assess the financial management systems and ensure compliance with the Controller and Accountant General Department’s guidelines, Review payroll management and address any discrepancies such as ghost names or salary arrears, Examine the internal control mechanisms in place to safeguard public resources, Provide feedback and recommendations to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in financial management.
The team reviewed the district’s 2024 budget execution and how closely it aligned with the approved budgetary allocations. Expenditure trends, particularly in key development projects, were examined to ensure that funds were being used appropriately and effectively, The monitoring team evaluated the district’s revenue mobilization strategies, with a focus on internally generated funds (IGF). The assembly’s ability to collect property rates, business operating permits, and other local taxes was assessed, and recommendations were made to improve revenue collection efforts, The team assessed the internal control measures the district had in place to prevent financial mismanagement. The role of the internal audit unit was also evaluated to ensure compliance with established guidelines and regulations, The district’s financial reporting mechanisms were reviewed to determine whether reports were being submitted on time and following CAGD regulations. The accuracy and transparency of these reports were also evaluated.
Payroll processes were reviewed to ensure that salaries were being paid accurately and on time. The team checked for irregularities such as ghost names (non-existent employees) on the payroll and verified that all staff were properly accounted for.
The visit by the Regional Controller and Accountant General Department monitoring team to the Asutifi North District Assembly was a positive engagement, highlighting both strengths and areas for improvement in the district’s financial management systems. The district was commended for its effective payroll management and timely financial reporting. However, the team emphasized the need to strengthen revenue generation and enhance internal controls, particularly in procurement processes.
The monitoring team pledged to provide ongoing support to the district, with a follow-up visit planned for 2025 to evaluate the progress made in implementing the recommendations. This visit marks an important step toward ensuring greater financial transparency, efficiency, and accountability in the Asutifi North District.