Audit Service inaugurates new Ashanti Regional Office
The Audit Service has inaugurated a modern regional office complex in Kumasi aimed at strengthening its operations and improving service delivery in the Ashanti Region.
The facility, located in Adum, was started in 2011 but stalled for several years before its eventual completion.
The complex has a reception area, auditorium, cafeteria, stores, general offices, offices for district auditors and an internal audit registry.
Speaking at the inauguration last Thursday, the Auditor-General, Johnson Akuamoah Asiedu, underscored the importance of adequate office space for staff to effectively execute their mandate.
He noted that only about 30 per cent of the Audit Service’s offices nationwide were owned by the institution, with the remaining 70 per cent housed within Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs).
“This arrangement poses a challenge, as we often operate from premises of the very institutions we are mandated to audit, which could potentially affect our independence,” he explained.
Mr Asiedu expressed pride in the completion of the project, stating that it would significantly boost staff morale and enhance productivity.
He also urged staff to ensure proper maintenance of the facility.
The Presidential Advisor on the National Anti-Corruption Programme, Professor Francis Dodoo, who inaugurated the building on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama, highlighted inadequate office space as a longstanding challenge for the Audit Service.
He noted that the situation not only creates operational difficulties but also risks compromising the institution’s impartiality.
Prof. Dodoo revealed that in 2016, the government secured a €13 million facility from KfW in Germany to support the construction of regional and district offices for the service.
He added that many of these facilities had been completed and were already in use, significantly improving working conditions nationwide.
He emphasised the critical role of the Audit Service in safeguarding public funds, noting that effective auditing remains key to curbing financial mismanagement and corruption.
Symbol of transparency
The Paramount Chief of the Kuntanase Traditional Area, Barima Ogyeabour Amankwaah Adunan II, who represented the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, described the facility as a symbol of transparency, discipline and good governance.
“The provision of this building demonstrates a commitment to equipping institutions responsible for protecting the public purse with the environment they deserve,” he said.
The Ashanti Regional Minister, Frank Amoakohene, also noted that the project reflects the government’s dedication to strengthening public financial management systems, stressing that the new office complex is expected to enhance the efficiency and independence of the Audit Service in the region.
