Critical success factors for effective internal auditing: A case of the office of auditor general

Abstract

The primary goal of this research was to look at the key success elements for effective internal auditing. Internal auditing is the foundation of an organization’s internal control system. Although internal auditing in the public sector has problems, there are success criteria for efficient internal auditing. The investigation focused primarily on the case at the Office of the Auditor General, which audits all of Namibia’s public sector offices. The relevant data for the researcher surveys was obtained from the office’s management team and internal auditors using Google Forms. The study examined empirical literature to establish the important success elements for the Office of Auditor General’s effective internal auditing function. The study’s findings were used to identify and categorize the variables, which were then used to create models. The results of the data analysis were provided in frequency tables and charts. The study’s findings demonstrate that effective internal auditing requires management support and sound management practice, appropriate well-trained and competent internal audit personnel, a functioning board of directors, internal policies, and control. Among the identified criteria, however, managerial support and excellent management practice play a critical role. To improve the efficacy of internal auditing, the research advised that the Office of the Auditor General support internal auditing positions by facilitating internal auditing work and recruiting more trained and qualified internal auditors.