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By Clarisse Niwemugeni
Kigali, Rwanda – The Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (ICPAR), in collaboration with the Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA), has officially announced that Rwanda will host the 8th Edition of the Africa Congress of Accountants (ACOA 2025) from May 6-9, 2025, at the Kigali Convention Centre (KCC).
At a press conference held earlier today in Kigali, ICPAR’s leadership, together with key stakeholders, sponsors, and exhibitors, highlighted the event’s significance as a platform for professional excellence and thought leadership across the African continent. The congress is expected to attract over 2,000 delegates from across Africa and beyond, under the theme “Creating Value for Africa.”
ACOA 2025: A Key Event for Africa’s Finance Professionals
ACOA 2025 will bring together thought leaders, policymakers, financial experts, and business executives to explore pressing issues in finance, accounting, and business strategy. Discussions will center around topics like driving sustainable development, climate action, the role of technology and innovation, realizing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and empowering workforce development.
The congress is not only a chance to elevate the standards of the accounting profession, but it also aims to promote Africa’s economic transformation by facilitating a deeper understanding of key challenges and opportunities. One of the key expectations for this year’s event, as highlighted by the President of ICPAR Obadiah R. BIRARO is to encourage networking and sharing of experiences among accounting professionals. This networking will foster stronger collaborations that drive sustainable development and shape the future of finance in Africa.
Rwanda’s Role as the Host Country
Rwanda’s selection as the host country for ACOA 2025 underscores its rising status as a regional financial hub. Known for its commitment to transparency, good governance, and sustainable economic development, Rwanda offers a platform for showcasing the nation’s progress. As part of the host country experience, delegates will have the opportunity to discover Rwanda’s local products, explore its rapidly growing hospitality industry, and witness the country’s journey of economic development.
During the press conference, ICPAR President emphasized that hosting such a significant international event will not only elevate Rwanda’s position on the global stage but will also provide a boost to the country’s hospitality industry. With over 2,000 delegates expected, there will be substantial demand for accommodation, transportation, dining, and other services. This influx of international visitors will directly benefit the hospitality sector, allowing Rwandan businesses to showcase their local offerings and enhance the country’s reputation as a top destination for conferences and events.
A Learning Opportunity for Journalists and the Public
Rwanda’s impressive development journey over the past few decades has garnered international attention. The ICPAR President Obadiah R. BIRARO called on journalists and Rwandans alike to take this opportunity to share with the international community how Rwanda has achieved such significant progress. According to the President, many visitors are curious about how the country, once devastated has risen to become one of the most successful examples of good governance, development, and economic growth in Africa. It is now up to Rwandans, including journalists, to explain the success story and how Rwanda’s dedication to good governance and strategic planning has contributed to its remarkable transformation.
Addressing the Growing Demand for Accountants
One of the key questions raised during the press conference was the relatively low number of accountants in Rwanda compared to the demand. Obadiah R. BIRARO responded by acknowledging the progress the profession has made, particularly in recent years. He pointed out that before, the accounting profession in Rwanda was undervalued, and accountants were often seen as mere bookkeepers. This, he said, led to the derogatory term “koramontabure,” referring to those who were only trusted with managing money and still it.
However, today, accountants in Rwanda and across the continent are recognized as highly skilled professionals. The establishment of organizations like ICPAR, which is responsible for upholding high professional standards, has played a crucial role in transforming the perception of the profession. The ACOA 2025 conference serves as an important milestone in recognizing the growing importance of accounting in driving economic growth and development across Africa.
A Platform for Business and Networking Growth
Beyond the discussions and workshops, ACOA 2025 will feature an exhibition space where sponsors and exhibitors will have the opportunity to showcase their products and services to a wide audience of professionals. The congress will also provide ample opportunities for business expansion and partnerships, with high-level policy dialogues, technical workshops, and networking sessions that will shape the future of the accounting profession.
A Call to Action
ICPAR and PAFA are inviting all stakeholders, including policymakers, businesses, financial institutions, development partners, and the media, to join forces in making ACOA 2025 a success. Registration for the event is open until April 14, 2025, and there are still partnership opportunities available for sponsors and exhibitors who wish to position themselves as leaders in Africa’s financial future.
About ICPAR
The Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (ICPAR) is the professional body responsible for regulating the accounting profession in Rwanda. Established in 2008, ICPAR promotes high professional standards and provides support to the development of accounting professionals.
About PAFA
The Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA) is the continental body that represents professional accountants across Africa. Founded in 2011, PAFA works to develop the accounting profession and strengthen its role in Africa’s economic development.
The ACOA 2025 conference represents a defining moment for both Rwanda and Africa as a whole. With the growth of the hospitality sector and enhanced professional networking among accountants, this event will be a catalyst for further progress and collaboration in shaping the future of Africa’s finance industry.
