SAI20 South Africa Presidency: Draft Declaration Meeting

Strengthening global governance through accountability and transparency

In an era when economic stability and sustainable development remain at the forefront of global priorities, the role of supreme audit institutions (SAIs) in promoting accountability and transparency has never been more critical. South Africa, currently at the helm of the SAIs within the G20 nations (SAI20), has taken a significant step in shaping the future of financial oversight and governance.

South Africa's SAI20 presidency recently marked a milestone by hosting a pivotal draft declaration meeting, bringing together representatives from SAI20 member countries. Over two days, these global thought leaders engaged in intensive discussions to refine a declaration that is both comprehensive and inclusive, addressing the unique challenges faced by nations at both local and global levels. The insights generated from this gathering will be instrumental in shaping the final declaration, which will be presented to G20 South Africa at the conclusion of the SAI20 presidency.

Fostering dialogue for sustainable progress

A key highlight of the meeting was the participation of subject matter experts who provided invaluable insights into pressing governance issues. An infrastructure financing specialist delved into sustainable funding models, exploring both the challenges and opportunities in mobilising resources for essential projects. A skills development expert emphasised the importance of capacity-building strategies, shedding light on how workforce readiness can drive long-term economic and social transformation.

These expert perspectives enriched the discussions, ensuring that the draft declaration incorporates practical solutions to enhance financial oversight and governance worldwide. The deliberations underscored the critical role SAIs play in promoting fiscal responsibility, strengthening institutional frameworks, and ensuring that public resources are managed effectively.

Paving the way for the SAI20 Summit and beyond

The draft declaration meeting set the stage for the highly anticipated SAI20 Summit, scheduled for 24 to 25 June 2025. This summit will serve as the culminating event where these commitments will be finalised and with the aim of being seamlessly integrated into the broader G20 South Africa agenda. The final declaration will reinforce the G20’s overarching themes of solidarity, equality and sustainability, showcasing the indispensable role of SAIs in ensuring compliance and improving global governance.

As the backbone of financial oversight, SAI20 plays a pivotal role in fostering effective public financial management ensuring that governments are not only held accountable but also equipped to fulfil their commitments efficiently and sustainably.

South Africa’s SAI20 presidency has provided a unique opportunity to set a new standard for how SAIs can drive transformative change. This aligns with its own strategic aspirations of driving a culture shift in government which will improve the lived realities of South Africans. The resonating impact of the SAI20 engagements has therefore cemented a bold undertaking by SAI South Africa and reinforced the continued commitment by SAIs to transparency and accountability. SAI20 stands as a beacon of integrity, demonstrating that through collaboration, oversight and innovation global governance can be strengthened for the benefit of all.