An Assessment of the Financial Planning System and Internal Controls at Amref Kenya

Abstract

The NGO movement in Kenya can be traced to the late 1950's. During this time most NGOs working in Kenya were mainly Christian based organisations. The purpose of this study was to determine if AMREF- Kenya makes efficient and effective use of financial planning, financial monitoring, financial record keeping and internal controls to achieve its objectives and fulfil commitments to stakeholders and whether it's accountable to donors and other stakeholders. The study was conducted on a number of Amref-Kenya projects from the areas of HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis (TB) and sexually transmitted diseases, malaria, sanitation, clinical services, disaster management and emergency response. The projects have been selected from different locations in Kenya. Data analysis was carried out and interpreted with the help of SPSS statistical software. Ratio analysis was also done for quantitative data and main indicators presented. The study found record keeping, financial planning and internal controls in place at Amref-Kenya that meets the required standards. The study concludes that financial transactions should be backed up by a supporting document like an invoice, bill or receipt and that every transaction should be written down in cashbook. Financial transactions should also be coded in order to produce summary reports. Internal controls should be put in place to ensure that funds are used properly and that the organizations objectives are met. The study recommends that Amref should seek advice from a professional archivist on proper filing systems and labelling. The management of Amref should also put measures in place to ensure timely receipt of expenditure returns from the field offices. The current Chart of Accounts should be maintained.