The regional workshop for African Public Accounts Committees held in Zambia last year dealt with critical issues and best practices essential for effective oversight.

Key issues addressed included budget constraints, maintaining relationships with PACs, handling sensitive information, and enhancing the clarity and precision of questioning.

UDF MP Sebastiaan !Gobs, who presented the report, submitted that while PACs play a significant role in public fund oversight, they often face challenges due to limited budgets. 

He says adequate resources are crucial for enabling PACs to fulfil their responsibilities effectively.

"The workshop stressed the need for implementing robust report tracking systems and involving youth to foster interest and engagement in PAC activities."

Co-hosted by the United Kingdom's PAC branch and Zambia's National Assembly, the event drew participants from eight African legislatures, including Ghana, Malawi, Namibia, the Seychelles, and St. Helena, as well as representatives from the UK Parliament.

The workshop was attended by 23 parliamentarians and parliamentary officials who engaged in comprehensive discussions on topics such as effective reporting, democracy promotion, youth involvement, and performance monitoring.

Participants also called for greater visibility and transparency in PAC operations, suggesting increased use of media and social media platforms to broadcast proceedings and engage the public. They emphasised the essential role of committee staff in supporting PAC functions and recommended supplementary training and additional resources to enhance their effectiveness.

!Gobs says the recommendations from this workshop aim to address these needs and strengthen the capacity of PACs across Africa.