The 30th Annual Seminar of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda (ICPAU) officially commenced today at Imperial Resort Beach Hotel in Entebbe, with a resounding message to the accounting profession: adapt to digital disruption or risk becoming irrelevant.
Held under the theme “Positioning Professionals for Sustainable Impact,” the three-day seminar opened with a keynote address from renowned leadership expert Dr. Peter Kimbowa, who challenged accountants to reimagine their roles amid rapid technological transformation.
Dr. Kimbowa warned that by 2030, an estimated 60–70% of traditional accounting functions may be eliminated due to automation.
However, he emphasized that within this disruption lies immense opportunity for professionals willing to evolve.
CPA Timothy Ediomu, President of ICPAU, announced several forward-looking initiatives to prepare members for the digital era.
He also hailed the official launch of Sustainability Disclosure Standards as a “historic moment” for Uganda, placing the nation among global frontrunners in responsible and transparent business reporting.
Representing the Speaker of Parliament, Hon. CPA Faith Nakut Loru Chuna, Member of Parliament for Napak District, urged accountants to move beyond compliance and apply sustainability principles in practice.
However, her remarks were delivered against a noticeably somber atmosphere, reflective of the profession’s growing awareness of the urgent changes required.
A major milestone of the seminar was the official adoption of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) Sustainability Disclosure Standards, making Uganda one of the early adopters of the global framework for sustainability reporting.
The move signals a shift in the role of accountants from financial stewards to strategic partners in sustainable development.
By Ben Musanje
3rd Sept 2025
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