On 24-27 September 2024, IDI and Transparency International Zambia held an impactful four-day workshop in Zambia as part of the CADRE Project, focusing on fostering collaboration between Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in the realm of Public Financial Management (PFM). Bringing together over 40 participants, the workshop explored strategies for collaboration and information sharing to improve accountability and transparency in the management of public resources.

The primary objective of the workshop was to deepen participants’ understanding of the roles CSOs can play in PFM and to identify practical ways in which CSOs can support Office of the Auditor General (OAG) in Zambia in safeguarding public resources. This dialogue was designed to explore how CSOs can strengthen their advocacy for SAI independence and contribute to promoting good governance.

Workshop Highlights

The workshop’s sessions covered a broad range of topics, each designed to build on the previous day’s discussions and drive meaningful outcomes. Some key highlights included:

– The Role of CSOs in PFM: Participants explored how CSOs can advocate for transparency and accountability while engaging citizens in PFM processes.

– Challenges and Opportunities for CSOs: Discussions on the legal, political, and resource-related challenges faced by CSOs in advocating for better financial oversight.

– Advocacy and Communication Strategies: Participants learned tools and techniques for effective advocacy, including how to engage with the media and influence public policy.

– The Power of Collaboration: The workshop featured case studies of successful collaborations between CSOs and SAIs, demonstrating the tangible benefits of such partnerships.

– SAI Independence: Participants delved into the importance of SAI independence and how it underpins public accountability, with a focus on Zambia’s unique context.

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Key Takeaways from the Workshop

The workshop was structured around several critical themes and covered the following:

1. Enhanced Knowledge of PFM and CSO Roles  

Participants gained a comprehensive understanding of PFM processes, including its key components and stakeholders. The sessions highlighted the importance of public accountability in financial management and covered how CSOs can actively contribute, such as through advocacy, monitoring public expenditure, and promoting transparency. The knowledge sharing sessions were a vital foundation for enhancing collaboration between CSOs and the OAG.

2. Strategic Alignment Between CSOs and SAIs  

One of the workshop’s critical discussions centred on aligning CSOs’ objectives with the ambitions of the OAG. By developing strategies to harmonise their activities, CSOs can work more effectively alongside the OAG to advance oversight of public funds. During the workshop, the participants identified opportunities for collaboration and practical ways to create synergies that promote good governance between these stakeholders.

3. A Roadmap for CSO Advocacy for SAI Independence 

Participants discussed regional case studies and best practices, resulting in the development of a collaborative action plan that enables CSOs to advocate effectively for the independence of SAIs, particularly the OAG in Zambia. Not only does this roadmap equip CSOs with tools to enhance their advocacy efforts; it also underscores the role CSOs can play in championing audit institutions to ensure they can operate without external influence and remain effective watchdogs over public resources.

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Journey of Collaboration

As the workshop concluded, participants presented their roadmaps for CSO advocacy, followed by a reflective evaluation session. These roadmaps will serve as a guide for future activities—outlining clear, actionable steps that CSOs can take to support SAI independence and improve PFM practices. By fostering a stronger relationship between CSOs and OAG Zambia, the CADRE Project is advancing progress towards ensuring public resources are managed responsibly and for the benefit of all citizens. We would like to thank all of the participants, and especially our organising partner Transparency International Zambia for the fruitful collaboration.