The 27th annual statutory meeting of the Presidents of the Courts of Accounts of UEMOA member states commenced on October 5, 2026, in Bamako, Mali. This event is significant as it aligns with the essential missions of the UEMOA Court of Accounts, which include rigorous evaluation of accounting control systems and harmonization of audit practices within the community. The meeting aims to bring together representatives from various member states to exchange ideas, share experiences, and develop common strategies to address financial and economic challenges facing the region.
In his opening speech, Malian Minister of State for Economy and Finance, Alousséni Sanou, emphasized Mali's commitment to community cooperation and support for implementing public finance reforms. He highlighted the importance of transparency in public finance management, a crucial issue for the region's sustainable development. Sanou also mentioned the new Constitution adopted on July 22, 2023, which aims to strengthen institutions and promote more responsible and effective governance.
The meeting is being held in accordance with Article 68 of the UEMOA treaty, which mandates the Court of Accounts to control the accounts of member states and Union organs. This legal framework requires an annual statutory meeting where representatives assess control systems and analyze audit results. The evaluation is not just a formality but a thorough audit of financial practices, ensuring transparency and accountability within institutions.
The objective of this session is multifaceted and particularly important in the current context. It aims to conduct an in-depth analysis of accounting control systems and synthesize control results from relevant exercises. This evaluation process helps detect potential anomalies and identify best practices to share among member states. The meeting also focuses on harmonizing public finance practices, with a deadline set for December 2025.
The issue of public debt control among UEMOA member states is also a key topic. The meeting explores methodological approaches to auditing debt, debt servicing, and debt management strategies. This subject is crucial as it directly affects the economic health of nations and their ability to manage financial obligations effectively. The sharing of experiences and best practices is essential in this regard.
The evaluation of public institution control systems is another critical aspect of the meeting. This involves assessing the results of control missions conducted within the community, ensuring transparency and accountability in public resource management. The meeting provides a platform for exchanging ideas and reflections to enhance institutional performance while promoting harmonization and modernization of financial jurisdiction practices within UEMOA.
The 27th annual meeting of the Presidents of the Courts of Accounts of UEMOA member states is a significant event that demonstrates the commitment of member states to strengthening financial governance and cooperation within the region. The meeting's outcomes are expected to contribute to improved transparency and accountability in public finance management, ultimately promoting sustainable development in the region.
Key points
- The meeting aims to evaluate accounting control systems and harmonize audit practices among UEMOA member states.
- The event is being held in accordance with Article 68 of the UEMOA treaty, mandating the Court of Accounts to control member state accounts.
- The meeting focuses on public debt control, institutional control systems, and harmonizing public finance practices within the region.
