KIGALI, Rwanda Over 2,000 professional accountants and financial leaders from more than 65 countries have convened in Kigali for the 8th Africa Congress of Accountants (ACOA), signaling a transformative shift in the role of the profession across the continent. Hosted by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (ICPAR) in collaboration with the Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA), the congress is being held from May 6–9, 2025, at the Kigali Convention Center under the theme of sustainable progress through financial leadership.
The event marks a turning point, not just for accountants, but for Africa’s broader development agenda. Hon. Minister Yusuf Murangwa officially opened the congress with a compelling call to action: “Accountants, auditors, and financial professionals have a unique position to assist Africa in generating, assessing, and safeguarding value.” He urged participants to embrace leadership roles in reform, accountability, and value creation.
ICPAR President Mr. Obadiah R. Biraro welcomed the international delegation and emphasized the power of accountability in shaping the continent’s future. “If you can’t account, then you don’t count,” he declared, underlining the social contract between finance professionals and the societies they serve.
Outgoing PAFA President Ms. Keto N. Kayemba challenged participants to go beyond their technical roles and see themselves as architects of inclusive, sustainable development. “This is the time to reimagine our profession,” she said, encouraging innovation, ethical leadership, and collaborative problem-solving.
The congress is tackling pressing global and regional topics such as climate finance, digital transformation, enhanced capital mobility, and the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Hon. Minister Sebahizi Prudence of Rwanda’s Ministry of Trade and Industry highlighted the promise of the AfCFTA as a “game changer,” opening a market of 1.4 billion people and driving unity, equity, and shared prosperity.
International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) President Jean Bouquot emphasized the urgent need for transparent, consistent sustainability reporting. “Financial markets need non-financial information to align decisions with global sustainability targets,” he noted, pointing to the rising importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) data.
Throughout the four-day event, delegates are engaging in high-level discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities aimed at equipping accountants to be champions of progress. As Africa navigates challenges from climate change to digital disruption, ACOA 2025 is positioning the accounting profession as a vital force in leading the continent toward a resilient and inclusive future.
The congress continues through May 9, 2025, in Kigali, serving as a catalyst for ideas, policies, and partnerships that could redefine Africa’s economic landscape for decades to come.
