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Working with External Auditors and Preparing for the Annual Audit

A poorly prepared audit drags on for weeks, drains the finance team and can result in qualified opinions that damage credibility with funders and boards. This course helps finance staff prepare properly for the annual external audit, assemble a clean audit file, respond efficiently to queries and manage the auditor relationship. It suits African organisations seeking smoother, faster and less stressful audits.

What you will be able to do

  • Explain the purpose and scope of an external audit and the audit opinion.
  • Prepare a complete and well organised audit file.
  • Assemble supporting schedules and reconciliations auditors expect.
  • Respond to audit queries and requests promptly and clearly.
  • Manage the audit timeline and the auditor relationship professionally.
  • Address prior year findings and management letter points.

Course outline

  1. 01Understanding the External Audit Process
  2. 02The Audit File and Supporting Evidence
  3. 03Preparing Schedules and Reconciliations
  4. 04Managing the Audit Timeline
  5. 05Responding to Audit Queries Efficiently
  6. 06Working Constructively With Auditors
  7. 07Understanding Audit Opinions and Findings
  8. 08Acting on the Management Letter

Who should attend

Financial accountants, financial managers, finance officers and administrators involved in preparing for and managing the annual external audit.

Dates, venues and fees

DatesVenueDaysFeeCalendar
17 to 18 Aug 2026Nairobi2US$1,100
24 to 25 Aug 2026Durban2R10,000
31 Aug to 1 Sep 2026Johannesburg2R10,000
14 to 15 Sep 2026Mauritius2US$1,100
21 to 22 Sep 2026Dubai2US$1,100
28 to 29 Sep 2026Lagos2US$1,100
5 to 6 Oct 2026Harare2US$1,100
12 to 13 Oct 2026Kampala2US$1,100
19 to 20 Oct 2026Dar es Salaam2US$1,100
26 to 27 Oct 2026Pretoria2R10,000
2 to 3 Nov 2026Cape Town2R10,000
16 to 17 Nov 2026Online2US$900
23 to 24 Nov 2026Mozambique2US$1,100
30 Nov to 1 Dec 2026Cairo2US$1,100
7 to 8 Dec 2026Accra2US$1,100
14 to 15 Dec 2026Lusaka2US$1,100
21 to 22 Dec 2026Kigali2US$1,100

Fees are per delegate. South African venues are priced in rand; other locations and online in US dollars. Fees exclude 15% VAT where applicable. Group bookings of three or more delegates from the same organisation qualify for a reduced rate; contact us for a quotation.

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