Department of Transport Achieves Clean Audit for 2024/25 After 31 Years

The clean audit outcome is the result of a rigorous assessment by AGSA based on the Department of Transport’s Annual Financial Statements (AFS) for 2024/25.

For the first time in over three decades, the Department of Transport has received a clean audit for the 2024/25 financial year, marking a major milestone in public sector governance and accountability. The achievement, confirmed by the Auditor-General South Africa (AGSA), highlights significant improvements in financial management, internal controls, and performance reporting within the department—a development warmly welcomed by Minister Barbara Creecy and Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa.

A Historic Achievement in Public Sector Accountability

The clean audit outcome is the result of a rigorous assessment by AGSA based on the Department of Transport’s Annual Financial Statements (AFS) for 2024/25. These statements were submitted on time and were free from any material misstatements, meeting the highest standards of financial accuracy and transparency.

In addition, the AGSA’s review of the department’s internal controls revealed no significant deficiencies, particularly concerning financial management processes. Importantly, the audit confirmed the completeness and reliability of the department’s performance indicators, which are essential for effective planning and reporting.

Minister Creecy described the clean audit as a “significant step forward” for the department, affirming its commitment to transparent governance. Deputy Minister Hlengwa echoed this sentiment, noting that the outcome reflects a collective dedication to establishing a culture of integrity, responsibility, and efficiency within the public transport sector.

Key Factors Driving the Clean Audit Success

The department’s leadership attributes this historic clean audit to a range of deliberate actions and sustained efforts across various organizational levels:

• Commitment to Clean Governance: The department has embedded principles of accountability and transparency into its core operations, fostering an environment where good governance is prioritized.

• Strengthening Assurance Providers: Recognizing the critical role of oversight bodies, management ensured that units such as Risk Management, Internal Audit, and the Audit Committee were well-resourced and staffed by competent professionals.

• Responsive Management: Senior leadership responded proactively to previous audit recommendations, developing and executing effective action plans to address identified weaknesses promptly.

• Proactive Engagement with AGSA: The department maintained continuous dialogue with the Auditor-General, conducting early and proactive audit reviews to identify potential issues and prepare thoroughly for the formal audit process.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Success was driven by coordinated efforts across all functions—from top management and finance teams to risk management and oversight committees—working together to uphold audit standards.

• Parliamentary Oversight: The Transport Portfolio Committee played a vital role in holding the department accountable to Parliament, ensuring transparency and adherence to good governance practices.

Broader Implications for Public Service Delivery

This clean audit achievement carries profound implications beyond the Department of Transport. It sets a new benchmark for accountability and efficiency in government departments, reinforcing public confidence in the stewardship of taxpayer funds.

Sound financial management and robust internal controls not only safeguard public resources but also enhance the department’s capacity to deliver critical infrastructure projects, maintain transport networks, and improve service delivery to citizens nationwide.

Minister Creecy emphasized that clean audits are integral to building a capable state and achieving sustainable development goals: “This is not just a tick-box exercise. It reflects our dedication to delivering real value to South Africans through responsible governance.”

Strengthening the Path Forward

Looking ahead, the Department of Transport aims to maintain this high standard of financial integrity while continuing to innovate and improve service delivery. Key priorities include:

• Further integrating technology and digital systems for enhanced financial monitoring and reporting.

• Expanding capacity-building initiatives to ensure staff remain equipped with the latest skills in financial management and audit readiness.

• Strengthening partnerships with oversight institutions to maintain continuous improvement in governance practices.

• Ensuring that clean governance translates into tangible outcomes in road safety, public transport efficiency, and infrastructure development.

Minister and Deputy Minister’s Vision for Sustained Excellence

Minister Creecy concluded by urging other government departments to draw inspiration from this success story: “Achieving a clean audit is possible when leadership, management, and oversight bodies work hand in hand with transparency and accountability at the forefront.”

Deputy Minister Hlengwa reinforced the call for collective responsibility: “We must view this achievement as a foundation, not an endpoint. Maintaining and improving upon this level of governance requires ongoing dedication from all stakeholders.”

After 31 years, the Department of Transport’s clean audit marks a watershed moment in South African public administration. It demonstrates that with committed leadership, effective oversight, and a culture of accountability, government departments can overcome longstanding challenges and deliver sound financial stewardship in service of the public good.

This accomplishment paves the way for more transparent, efficient, and impactful governance across the public sector, benefiting citizens and strengthening democratic institutions.