South African profession faces charter for change
Government pushes through 'black economic empowerment' charter for accountants
The accounting profession in South Africa yesterday saw the introduction of a
new charter aimed at drawing more non-white people into the profession.
The so called ‘black economic empowerment’ charter was pushed through by the
country’s trade and industry minister.
According to South African website
Business
Report, just 12% of South Africa’s accountants are from a non-white
background.
The charter is intended to help change the profile of the profession so that
it better reflects the country’s demographics as a whole.
Accountancy firms and registered auditors, the South African Institute of
Chartered Accountants, and training bodies will now face targets for bringing
non-white people into their ranks, according to Business Report.
The charter also aims at bringing more people from unrepresented groups into
ownership of accountancy firms.
Business Report said the charter had been under discussion since
2004.
In a statement on southafrica.info, the South African ministry of trade is
quoted saying:
“Our country requires an economy that can meet the needs of all our economic
citizens – our people and their enterprises – in a sustainable manner.”
“This will only be possible if our economy builds on the full potential of
all persons and communities across the length and breadth of this country.”
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