The Swartland Municipality has achieved its 11th clean audit report since the 2010-’11 financial year. The audit outcome for the 2022-’23 financial year was confirmed by the Auditor-General last week. “This achievement is highly significant,” said Executive Mayor Harold Cleophas in a statement, “as clean and competent governance in the South African sphere continues to decline.”
“A clean audit for the municipality creates trust and confidence, and draws investors because they know they can count on quality services. This, in turn, creates job opportunities and grows our local economy. The knock-on effect of transparent and good governance can never be underestimated,” Cleophas explained.
All municipalities are audited annually as per required legislation. During the audit process all financial statements are closely scrutinised to ensure the municipality can account for every transaction. It is, however, not only financial statements that are considered during the audit but internal processes are also assessed and audited. This is an incredibly intense and time-consuming process. At the end of the process the audit team issues a report with their findings. Achieving a clean outcome is the best possible result and is an all clear indication of a transparent and responsible government.
“Our continued achievement in this regard is proof of our dedication to clean, responsible and transparent governance,” Cleophas continues. “It serves as further proof that Swartland is one of the best managed municipalities in South Africa with a continued commitment of excellence and dedication to service delivery for all our residents.
“A clean audit does not mean that we are perfect. It is, however, a clear indication that our budget is being spent in the interests of our community and not wasted on superfluous and unrealistic plans and projects. We continuously strive to improve our services and to do better for our residents.
“On behalf of the council I want to congratulate and thank the municipal manager Joggie Scholtz and the entire administration for their hard work and dedication in making sure Swartland Municipality is managed responsibly. Receiving a clean audit is the culmination of the entire administration’s hard and meticulous work. Swartland residents are truly fortunate to have such a dedicated team. Our residents also deserve credit for this achievement, as they keep us on our toes and their active citizenship helps to keep us accountable and make us successful.”
