The “Strengthening the Capacity of Supreme Audit Institutions in Small Island Developing States to Audit the Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)” (SIDS-SAIs Symposium 2026) has commenced in Ukulhas, Alif Alif Atoll.
The symposium, taking place from 3 to 5 August in collaboration with the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) and the Auditor General’s Office, was launched by Auditor General Hussain Niyazi. A total of 46 delegates from 26 countries are participating in the symposium.
According to the Auditor General’s Office, the main aim of the symposium is to share practical auditing methods, strengthen capacity to oversee the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) implementation, and enhance accountability through collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Speaking at the symposium’s opening ceremony, the Auditor General highlighted the unique challenges faced by audit institutions in small island states and the value of such forums in overcoming these challenges.
Several panel discussions will take place during the symposium, with day one focusing on the role of audit institutions in achieving the SDGs. Discussions also centred around budgeting and financial management for sustainable development projects.
Day two will focus on the role of audit agencies in addressing climate change, and the digitalisation of audit systems.
The symposium will be followed by the IDI Global Summit on 6–7 August, organised jointly by the International Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI) and the Auditor General’s Office.
The Auditor General’s Office said hosting these international events on a local inhabited island will help boost the island’s tourism and economy.