*The African Union Calls for Strengthening Public Financial Management.* During her opening remarks, Edith Akorfa Lumor, Director of Finance - Africa Union, highlighted the critical role of transparency, accountability, and innovation in shaping Africa’s financial future. She emphasized that Africa loses billions annually to corruption, making strong public finance systems essential for sustainable development. She called for: ✅ Leveraging AI & Data Analytics – To enhance policy analysis, detect fraud, and improve efficiency. ✅ Deepening Collaboration – Strengthening partnerships between professional accountants, governments, and institutions. ✅ Embracing African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat – To drive economic integration and ensure finance professionals play a key role in its success. ✅ Sustainability & ESG – Integrating climate finance and governance into public finance strategies. "Let us work hand in hand to make public finance a catalyst for sustainable development and economic prosperity," she stated. #pfmafrica2025 #pafainuganda