At the same time, internal auditors have been advised to exercise greater caution when using emerging technologies – particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI) – to minimise risks of cyberattacks and data breaches.
Arusha. The government has urged all public institutions to strengthen their cyber security systems and employ skilled ICT professionals to safeguard sensitive data and digital infrastructure.
At the same time, internal auditors have been advised to exercise greater caution when using emerging technologies – particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI) – to minimise risks of cyberattacks and data breaches.
The call was made in Arusha by the Permanent Secretary in the President’s Office, Public Service Management and Good Governance, Juma Selemani Mkomi, while opening a two-day forum that brought together internal auditors, heads of public institutions, and government agency representatives.
“In recent years, the use of ICT has increased significantly, but every technological tool comes with its own complexities,” said Mr Mkomi. “Internal auditors must study these systems thoroughly and use them responsibly to ensure that our data remains secure and uncompromised.”
He warned that a lack of adequate expertise could leave systems vulnerable to infiltration, manipulation and misuse, resulting in inaccurate information and potentially serious consequences for citizens and institutions.
Mr Mkomi stressed the importance of close collaboration between institutions and the e-Government Authority (eGA) to access expert guidance and strengthen the country’s digital defences against cybercrime.
President of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Tanzania, Ms Zelia Njera, highlighted the role of the Good Governance Forum, which the institute has organised annually for the past 12 years.
The platform brings together board members, institutional leaders and auditors to exchange experiences, build networks and promote best practices in governance.
She said this year’s discussions would focus on critical topics such as ethical leadership, cultural governance, digital transformation, innovation and AI.
“Cyber security and data protection, geopolitical issues, ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance), sustainability and risk management will also be key themes – all aligned with Tanzania’s Vision 2050,” Ms Njera noted.
“These themes are designed to enhance leadership effectiveness, ensuring that when leaders return to their offices, they apply improved practices for the benefit of both the community and the nation,” she added.
Ms Njera also called on the government to fast-track the development of a legal framework for internal auditing to strengthen accountability and deter unethical practices.
“We also urge the official recognition of the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) certification in Tanzania. While this credential is globally respected, it has yet to receive adequate recognition within our national systems,” she said.
Former Controller and Auditor General Ludovic Utouh echoed the call, stressing that internal audit should be granted the respect and independence necessary to effectively discharge its mandate.
One of the forum participants, Mr Jonathan Ngoma, underscored the importance of such platforms in reminding leaders of their duty to uphold ethics, transparency and prudent management of public resources.
“Through this forum, we share experiences about the challenges we face and how we overcome them. Our ultimate goal is to strengthen the role of internal audit in advancing service delivery and economic development for the benefit of society,” Mr Ngoma said.
