Visionary Reports

The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Cameroon Last Friday April 17 ended a three day 2nd National Internal Audit Conference.The conference that ran from April 15th–17th 2026 in Douala brought together diverse assembly of professionals from across the continent, signalling a new era for internal auditing in Cameroon defined by global standards, professional certification, and a commitment to ethical excellence.

As demands for transparency and effective governance rise globally, the conference serves as a critical platform to deepen the understanding of Global Internal Audit Standards. By bringing together regulators, corporate leaders, and practitioners, IIA Cameroon is positioning the internal audit function not merely as a compliance tool, but as a strategic partner in risk management and organizational performance. From Credibility to ImpactA central theme of the conference is the urgent need for international certification (CIA, CRMA, IAP). Keynote speaker and industry expert Rigobert Pinga Pinga emphasized that certification is the “engine” of professional excellence. “Certification creates credibility,” Pinga Pinga stated. “Whether you are in Douala, Dakar, or Hong Kong, you speak the same language. It transforms individuals, organizations, and ultimately, the reputation of our country. When a country has a high density of certified professionals, it sends a signal to the world:Governance reigns here.”Pinga Pinga also addressed the evolving role of technology, noting that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not a threat but an opportunity. “As internal auditors, we must embrace AI to audit smarter. It is a tool to help us reach the summit of our profession.”Beyond “Policing”One of the primary hurdles facing the profession is the misconception of what internal auditors actually do. Dohnayi Thesling, President of IIA Cameroon, highlighted that the conference’s theme was chosen to bridge this knowledge gap.”A good number of stakeholders take internal audit for mere internal control or compliance,” Thesling explained. “This conference is meant to educate them. You cannot have professional practice without standards, and you cannot pride yourself as an expert if you are not excellent. We are moving from talking about governance to operating at an excellent level as trusted advisors to management.”This sentiment was echoed by participants like Blasius Achiri, who traveled from Cairo to attend. Achiri noted that the profession is successfully shedding its old “policing” image. “We are moving away from traditional auditing toward giving managers foresight and helping organizations achieve strategic objectives through collaboration rather than pushback.”Meanwhile, the current number of Certified Internal Auditors (CIAs) in Cameroon has grown from 20 to 45 over the last decade, speakers noted there is still significant room for growth. To accelerate this progress, the conference issued a call to action for both public and private sectors: Organizations should specifically fund certification exams. Provide the resources and time necessary for auditors to train and specialize. Align local internal audit functions with the new Global Internal Audit Standards to attract serious investors and development partners like the World Bank and the EU.The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Cameroon is dedicated to providing dynamic leadership for the profession.

Through advocacy, professional education, and the promotion of best practices, the Institute ensures that internal auditors add measurable value to their organizations and the broader Cameroonian economy.

By Henry Wana