Outcome ZAF_O_4

Improved management of financial and HR in pursuit of results

During the period under review, staff were partly trained in information security, operations efficiency, compliance and management oversight. SAMCO continued to strengthen streamlining of business processes, putting in place systems for enhanced efficiency and compliance. Just like other agencies, the MCO did not move from Metro Park (UN House) Building in June 2020 as indicated due to the pandemic of COVID as South Africa is experiencing lock down. In addition, due to COVID-19, the office has continued to update the BCP so that business is not interrupted. Common service contributions were paid well in advance (before commencement of the year). The MCO continues to follow policies and guidelines to ensure compliance in its operation and implementation of activities.

Improved management of financial and HR in pursuit of results

SAMCO conducted two audits during this period (partner audits and internal audit). In preparation on the partner audit, Operations conducted audit preparation and spots checks which assisted in reconciliation of partner ageing accounts in particular both ledgers for UNW and partner. This resulted in the 4 partner audits being unqualified. Lessons learnt from this exercise were the following: (a) Reinforcing confidence between UNW and the partners; (b) Early detection of erroneously reporting and postings. (c) Strengthened audit preparations and guidance (d) Post audit follow up on recommendations from the management report. (e) Areas that need to be strengthened in management of the partner agreement and reporting (f) UNW to organise a workshop for partners on orientation of partner agreements and reporting The Internal Audit was conducted over a two-week period, where Programmatic and Operational business processed were reviewed. Overall, the audit indicated that governance arrangements, risk management practices and controls were generally established and functioning, but need some improvement. The Identified improvement areas were: (a) Defining the Strategic Note Roadmap for SAMCO and its office typology. (b) Strenthen Programme Management and Report, which also includes donor reporting. (c) Effective utilisation of UNW system for reporting (d) Key positions are recruited to address capacity issues (e) Strengthened Operational Effectives in Human Resources and Procurement (f) Identify a diverse pool of partners for a competitive solicitation (g) Improved BCCMA and security compliance (h) Effective risk management reporting and compliance Overall, 23 audit recommendations were identified for the office to address through the audit action plan. Management developed a roadmap in address these recommendations with timeframes and focal persons. From October 2022 to date, 12 action plan recommendations have been reviewed and are awaiting final approval by IAS.