The Impact of Independence of Internal Audit Function on Transparency and Accountability Case of Zimbabwe Local Authorities

Abstract

The study aimed at examining the impact of Internal Audit Function independence on Transparency & Accountability. The study adopted independence as the independent variable and transparency & accountability as the dependent variable, measured by management perception, organization policy, auditees’ cooperation and risk exposure of the organization. Survey data was collected from local authorities in Zimbabwe using semi structured questionnaires. Correlation and regression analysis were used to test the hypothesis that the existence of an independent internal audit function in an organization is positively associated with transparency and accountability. Study findings revealed that the existence of an independent internal audit function in an organization is positively associated with transparency and accountability. The findings concur with results from previous studies which concluded that an independent internal audit function plays a monitoring role, therefore contributing towards promoting good corporate governance practices, supporting the applicability of the Agency Theory and the Theory of Inspired Confidence in internal audit research

Keywords: Internal Audit Function, Independence, Transparency & Accountability

DOI: 10.7176/RJFA/10-5-06

Publication date:March 31^st 2019