ICPAR unveils new headquarters, reimagines the future of African accountancy

By Elias HAKIZIMANA.

The Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (ICPAR) ushered in a new era with the unveiling of its modern headquarters in Kigali on May 9, 2025, an event that coincided with the prestigious Africa Congress of Accountants (ACOA) 2025.

The twin milestone positioned Rwanda as a hub for continental conversations around the evolving role of accountants in driving sustainable development.

The ceremony brought together financial leaders, policymakers, and professionals from across Africa to reexamine the accountancy profession’s mission—moving beyond number-crunching to champion sustainability, digital innovation, and inclusive economic growth.

At the core of the dialogue was the urgent question: How can Africa’s accountants become architects of value creation in a rapidly transforming world?

Keto N. Kayemba, the outgoing President of the Pan-African Federation of Accountants (PAFA), emphasized a shift toward purpose-driven accounting.

“Our mandate in PAFA is to enable accountants to lead Africa’s transformation through sustainable value,” she stated. Kayemba stressed that accountants must embrace their role in embedding sustainability principles into corporate governance and reporting, helping nations align with global environmental and social priorities.

Jean Bouquot, President of the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC), called for a unified professional approach to planetary challenges.

“The future of accountancy is inseparable from the future of the planet,” he said. “We are witnessing a structural shift—where financial performance is no longer enough. Stakeholders are demanding clarity on environmental and social impact.”

Bouquot pointed to the rising global trend of integrated reporting, where sustainability metrics sit alongside traditional financial disclosures, redefining corporate accountability and transparency.

Obadiah R. Biraro, President of ICPAR, challenged African accountants to move from the margins to the mainstream of economic development.

“We are no longer in the back office,” he declared. “Accountants must become strategic communicators of value, policy influencers, and key players in national dialogue.”

Biraro highlighted missed national opportunities—such as during high-stakes arbitrations—where accountants’ technical expertise could have made a decisive difference. He urged the profession to be proactive in policy development and conflict resolution.

Meanwhile, ICPAR Vice President Bugunya spotlighted the transformative potential of digital technology within the profession.

“We’re embedding automation into our strategy, not just as a tool—but as a mindset aligned with global goals,” he said, referencing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He emphasized that ICPAR’s agenda prioritizes innovation and partnerships to modernize financial services and strengthen institutional resilience.

The launch event captured the winds of change sweeping through the accountancy field across Africa.

The consensus was clear: accountants are no longer passive record keepers—they are now seen as ethical stewards of public trust, architects of inclusive economies, and vital contributors to sustainable development.

With its investment in a cutting-edge facility and a future-forward training model, ICPAR is cementing its position as a regional leader in professional excellence. The institute’s strategic vision reflects a bold commitment to equipping Rwandan accountants with the skills, technologies, and ethical grounding required to navigate a complex global economy.

As Africa charts its course toward a more resilient and equitable futures, Rwanda’s accountants, supported by ICPAR are poised to help lead the way.

A view of ICPAR’s newly inaugurated headquarters, a symbol of Rwanda’s commitment to professional excellence

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