Times Of Swaziland: ESWATINI INSTITUTE OF ACCOUNTANTS MEMBERS GROW TO 613

ESWATINI INSTITUTE OF ACCOUNTANTS MEMBERS GROW TO 613
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Nhlanganiso Mkhonta on 01/12/2024 14:10:00


MBABANE - The Eswatini Institute of Accountants (ESIA) hosted its 37th annual
general meeting (AGM) on Friday, marking another milestone in the institute’s
journey toward excellence, as members gathered to reflect on achievements,
deliberate on key issues and plan for the future.
The ESIA Chairperson, Makhosazana Mhlanga, led the proceedings, setting the tone
with an engaging review of the Annual Report and Council’s efforts over the
past year. In her address, she highlighted significant growth in membership,
which has risen from 579 to 613 members across various categories. This
increase, she noted, reflects the institute’s appeal and the value it offers
to accounting professionals.
Audited
The financial health of ESIA was a focal point of the meeting, with the
presentation of the audited financial statements for the year ending March 31,
2024. The chairperson proudly announced a surplus, a testament to prudent
financial management and the Institute’s commitment to sustainability. In a
move to align membership subscriptions with inflation, a modest 4 per cent
increase was proposed for 2025–2026, marking the first adjustment since 2020.
Additionally, two new membership categories were introduced for retired
professionals: Retired Chartered Accountants and Retired Registered Accountants.
This initiative acknowledges the contributions of senior members, while offering
them a cost-effective way to stay connected to the profession.
The AGM also offered a glimpse into the future. Members were updated on the
revamp of the ESIA website, which promises to set a new standard in convenience
and accessibility. Once complete, the platform will enable members to track
their Continuing Professional Development (CPD), apply for membership online,
and access short courses. This digital transformation aims to align ESIA with
global standards and enhance the member experience.
Inspiring
In an inspiring display of regional collaboration, the Chairperson announced the
signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with accounting bodies in Zambia
and Malawi, with plans to expand such partnerships further. These MoUs pave the
way for knowledge sharing and the harmonisation of standards within the Southern
African Development Community (SADC) region. Before concluding the meeting, the
chairperson expressed gratitude to members, who had contributed valuable
insights to the institute’s strategic planning process.
The strategy, set to launch soon, underscores ESIA’s mission to elevate the
accounting profession in Eswatini and beyond. The 37th AGM closed with a renewed
sense of purpose and optimism. As members departed, it was clear that ESIA is
not only growing in numbers, but also in its impact, setting the stage for
another year of progress and innovation.