Congo's Public Sector Targets Enhanced Financial Transparency

The Directorate General of Public Portfolio (DGPP) and the National Order of Chartered Accountants of Congo (ONEC-C) have forged a partnership aimed at addressing the issue of unauthorized accounting practices within the nation's state-owned companies. This collaboration represents a crucial step towards improving financial governance and bolstering the country's international reputation.

A key meeting on May 13, 2026, in Brazzaville brought together Karine Emma N'Guesso Mouandé, Director General of the DGPP, and Brice Voltaire Etou-Obambi, the newly elected head of ONEC-C. The primary objective is to streamline the management of public enterprises by confronting the use of unaccredited accountants. This focus stems from the recognition that reliable financial information is fundamental to any economic reform, aligning with President Denis Sassou N'Guesso's vision for state modernization.

Global Standards and Professional Excellence

Brice Voltaire Etou-Obambi, recently recognized for his professional contributions in France, announced ONEC-C's intention to align Congolese accounting practices with global standards. The organization aims to formalize its membership with the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC). This move is expected to enhance credibility among international donors and investors by ensuring that public funds are managed according to certified audit and control regulations.

The new ONEC-C board, elected on April 17, has expressed a clear commitment to eliminating improvisation and opaque practices that contradict the principles of excellence advocated by regulatory authorities.

Strategic Alliance to Safeguard Public Assets

The partnership between the DGPP and ONEC-C extends beyond a formal agreement, outlining concrete actions such as in-depth diagnostics, ensuring the reliability of public enterprise accounts, and supporting restructuring processes. Karine Emma N'Guesso Mouandé, who leads a vital technical body within the Ministry of Finance, acknowledges that the sustained recovery of the public portfolio depends on the quality of financial professionals employed. This collaboration is designed to strengthen internal control mechanisms, creating a robust defense against embezzlement and mismanagement that often hinder public sector performance. This initiative is seen as a significant stride toward exemplary governance, essential for attracting capital and fostering sustainable investment.

The fight against the illegal practice of accounting is the engine of economic trust. This issue is critical as it pertains to the country's financial sovereignty. By mandating CEMAC accreditation and registration with the Order, Congo ensures that only ethical professionals handle public funds. This is a crucial step for the state portfolio to become a genuine lever for growth instead of a burden.

Illegal Practices Under Scrutiny

The OHADA protocol explicitly states that no one can practice as a chartered accountant or auditor without being registered with the Order. Despite this, numerous individuals continue to operate illegally within public entities. Brice Voltaire Etou-Obambi firmly reiterated that this practice must cease. Access to the profession is stringent, requiring a chartered accountancy degree, a specialized curriculum validated by CEMAC, and official accreditation.

The partnership aims for a comprehensive professionalization of financial personnel. The goal is not merely punitive but to provide technical support for public portfolio reforms. By fostering synergy between the DGPP and ONEC-C experts, the country establishes a strategic oversight tool capable of detecting anomalies before they escalate into crises.

Towards Sustainable Financial Ethics

The impending signing of this partnership agreement signifies a commitment to change. In 2026, Congo envisions itself as a model of accounting rigor within the CEMAC zone. The positive response from the business community indicates high expectations for these announcements, making the integrity of financial figures a matter of national pride. While the legislative framework is now clarified, the success of this operation will depend on the DGPP's tenacity and ONEC-C's ability to maintain its high standards. One certainty remains: the era of 'ghost accountants' is nearing its end.

Source: Original Article