Vimbai Chikwenhere confirmed as Auditor‑General

Parliament approves Chikwenhere's appointment as Auditor-General

HARARE — Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube has confirmed the appointment of Vimbai Chikwenhere as Auditor‑General, following her nomination by President Emmerson Mnangagwa and endorsement by the Public Accounts Committee.

Presenting the nomination to Parliament, Minister Ncube said the committee had thoroughly considered Chikwenhere’s credentials and commended the appointment. He noted that the nomination was made under section 310(1) of the Constitution, which requires the President to appoint the Auditor‑General with Parliament’s approval.

Professional background and qualifications

• Chartered accountant: Chikwenhere is a chartered accountant, a qualification the Minister highlighted as appropriate for the role.

• Audit experience: Her professional experience includes senior roles at Ernst & Young Zimbabwe, where she served in various audit capacities.

• Continuity at the Audit Office: Chikwenhere succeeds an acting headship held by Rheah Kujinga, who led the Office of the Auditor‑General after the retirement of Mildred Chiri in 2023.

Role and mandate of the Auditor‑General

The Office of the Auditor‑General is constitutionally mandated to audit all government agencies, local authorities, and state‑controlled entities under section 309 of the Constitution and the Audit Office Act. The Auditor‑General’s responsibilities include:

• Conducting financial and performance audits of public entities.

• Reporting audit findings to Parliament and relevant oversight bodies.

• Promoting accountability and transparency in public financial management.

Chikwenhere’s appointment places her at the helm of a key institution in Zimbabwe’s public financial management framework, with a central role in strengthening oversight of public resources.

Parliamentary endorsement

The Public Accounts Committee’s endorsement clears the way for Parliament to approve the President’s nomination, formalising Chikwenhere’s appointment. Following parliamentary approval, the Auditor‑General will assume full duties and lead the Audit Office’s programme of audits and reporting.

Observers say the appointment will be watched closely by stakeholders seeking robust audit oversight, improved public‑sector accountability, and timely reporting on the use of public funds.

Vimbai Chikwenhere Auditor-General appointment 2026