​With the recent appointment of a new Chief Financial Officer at Ugu, Kushi Audan (39), it’s safe to say, ‘not all is doom and gloom’ in local government, as he is set to provide strategic leadership in the budget and treasury office.Kushi, a Chartered Accountant, was appointed as CFO effective from March 01, 2022 following a meticulous selection process by the municipality, on a five year fixed term contract.Not only is he born and bred in the town of ‘Sheppy’, he brings with a wealth of expertise in the finance and local government sector, with over 13 years’ experience.Kushi holds a BCom Degree as well as a BCom Hons in Accounting. The former Jai Hind Primary and Port Shepstone Secondary pupil is no stranger to the local government environment as he was at the helm of Umzumbe municipality’s finances for more than 10 years’, where he was part of the municipality’s turnaround strategy to create stability and financial viability.His appointment is tied to our vision for a transparent fiscal management and adherence to strict administration processes.Part of his duties will include, formulating creative strategies to enhance financial viability with cost effectiveness in the delivery of services and the financial administration of the municipality as well as providing support during the preparation of the municipality’s Integrated Development Plan and Service Delivery Budget and Implementation Plan in compliance with the Municipal Finance Management Act to ensure effective and efficient performance.His appointment comes after Ugu had been without a CFO for more than two years and had, as a result, received a qualified audit opinion.The achievement of a clean audit or an improved audit outcome requires a buy in from all departments with strict implementation of internal controls as well as a consolidated corrective action plan with time frames being followed by all departments. We are confident that CFO’s skills and knowledge of local government and strict financial practices will have a positive impact in the municipality’s plan to achieve financially stability.IsiGqi SoGu had a chat with Kushi who said he was grateful for the confidence shown in him to lead Ugu’s finances. “There is certainly a willingness and dedication at Ugu to create a positive tangible impact, and I want to be a part of that value chain towards ensuring a financially viable municipality that links to efficient and effective service delivery.”“Of course, there are always challenges in local government. The dynamics in the public sector are different to that of the private sector. However, it requires a positive and inclusive approach between communities and government to achieve smooth operations”, continued Kushi.Apart from work, Kushi is married, with two beautiful daughters. His wife is an educator at a local primary school. He is also blessed with both his parents who are retired teachers from Port Shepstone. He has an older sister who is an attorney and a younger brother who is a banker. Kushi draws his strength from his family, whom he refers to as “his pillars of strength” and his “voice of reason”.In his free time, Kushi enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching Netflix, reading business/motivation related books and swimming. He is also a foodie who loves to sample food across all different cultures.The Ugu District Council and municipality welcomes Kushi and wishes him well in his responsibilities. We hope that together we will be able to take this municipality to greater heights.Become a member of our facebook page by liking the’Ugu District Municipality’page to receive continuous and factual updates on matters concerning service delivery.ENDSISSUED BY:UGU DISTRICT MUNICIPALITYFor more information and media queries contact:Senior Manager: Mayoralty and CommunicationsMr Mondli NcaneMondli.Ncane@ugu.websitesupport.co.za​