Pretoria, 12 July 2016 – A first for Africa, the Southern African Institute for Business Accountants (CIBA) will host the 46th IAFEI World Congress for Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) in Cape Town from 9 – 11 November 2016. The Congress is an annual event organised by a host member institute where financial executives from all over the world convene to participate in topical discussions and exchange ideas relating to CFOs’ concerns in the current global situation. This year the Congress will bring together CFOs from all over the globe to facilitate conversations with the focus on Africa driving global change.

The International Association of Financial Executives Institutes (IAFEI) represents more than 20 member countries and the world’s leading and most respected CFOs. CIBA has been a member institute since 2015 and is the first South African CFO organisation that has been awarded membership.

“We are privileged and excited to host this international congress, and delegates can look forward to an event packed with thought-provoking discussions,” says CIBA CEO, Nicolaas van Wyk.

Driving global change by bringing together professionals that are leaders of change internationally will broaden delegates’ understanding of current policies and practices that promote or hinder growth in Africa. “It is important that financial systems and regulations are uniform, compatible and harmonious worldwide, to support inclusive economic growth. We believe CFOs are at the forefront of moving co-operation between business sectors forward, and the Congress will provide just such an opportunity whilst creating a platform for decision makers to engage in local and international debates and exchange ideas,” comments van Wyk.

The world economy is faced with many challenges. Global companies are seeking new avenues for revenue growth, are becoming more operationally efficient and are seeking new investment opportunities. “According to the World Bank, Africa is among the fastest growing regions, but it faces significant headwinds as a result of global trends and region-specific risks. CFOs need to co-operate internationally to bring about the desired changes that will stimulate growth,” says IAFEI Chairman, Fausto Cosi.

A futuristic view of Africa, the role of rating agencies and cybercrime are some of the topics that will be discussed by CFOs of major corporations and thought leaders in the industry.

The Congress will provide practical knowledge, tactical information and networking opportunities for CFOs and other senior finance executives. Interested delegates can register for the Congress by visiting www.iafeiworldcongress.com. The Congress is presented in partnership with CIMA and the UNISA Graduate School of Business Leadership (SBL).

“Key to converting African growth to African transformation will be the ability of states, the business community and labour to co-operate. We see this congress as a true enabler of co-operation and driver of change,” concludes van Wyk.