CHAIRPERSON OF NEW AUDIT COMMITTEE CEDRIC BOLTMAN TO STRENGTHEN GOVERNANCE AT DSD

By Cuma Pantshwa

• The role of the Department of Social Development’s audit committee is to be the independent body responsible for overseeing governance, risk management, and control processes.
• The Minister of Social Development has appointed a new audit committee for the department that will be chaired by Cedric Boltman, a registered member of the Institute of Internal Auditors of South Africa.
• Boltman is committed to improving governance structures and ensuring the Department of Social Development upholds the highest standards of integrity and accountability.

The new audit committee for the Department of Social Development, appointed by Minister of Social Development Nokuzola Tolashe, has a vital role to play – to be the independent body responsible for overseeing governance, risk management, and control processes within the department.

This strategic move is set to enhance transparency and accountability in line with the priorities of the Government of National Unity in the seventh administration.

Leading this committee is Cedric Boltman, an accomplished professional with over 30 years of experience in governance and oversight roles across various government departments.

Holding a Master of Business Administration and being a registered member of the Institute of Internal Auditors of South Africa, Boltman brings a wealth of expertise in business management, risk assessment, and commercial structuring.

Bringing experience and passion to social development

Boltman’s decision to take on this role stems from his deep-rooted commitment to public service and governance.

“Why social development? There was an opportunity advertised, and I thought I could avail myself and assist the department. I have previous experience with other national departments, including the Presidency. I wanted to share that experience and expertise in social development,” he explained.

After stepping away from the corporate sector three years ago, Boltman transitioned into entrepreneurship as the managing director of Phalanx Real Estate. His business acumen and strategic leadership have positioned him as an innovative thinker, capable of conceptualising solutions and driving impactful change.

Strengthening governance and oversight

As the chairperson of the audit committee, Boltman is committed to improving governance structures and ensuring the department upholds the highest standards of integrity and accountability.

“My role is to galvanise and focus the committee’s attention on governance issues that may be affecting the audit performance of the department. We will hold management accountable for improving audit outcomes, introducing controls, and strengthening systems and processes to enhance the department’s function,” he stated.

Under his leadership, the audit committee will oversee the financial management of the department, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and used effectively to deliver social development programmes.

His vision is clear: “We need to link the budget and financial allocations directly to the department’s outcomes. Are we getting value for money? That’s the key question we will assess on a quarterly basis.”

Upholding ethics, transparency, and public trust

Boltman strongly believes that ethics and transparency are fundamental to good governance.

“Ethics and transparency should be core values within the department. It’s important that employees understand ethical requirements and the fine line between transparency and confidentiality. Future employees must also be carefully screened to ensure we have the right people with the right ethical standards,” he emphasised.

Public trust is central to the department’s success, particularly in an era of fiscal constraints.

“Given the economic pressures, Treasury and stakeholders are making tough budget allocation decisions. Resources will go where efficiency, transparency, and effective service delivery are evident,” Boltman said.

“The Department of Social Development must position itself as a leading institution in delivering social services,” he added.

Navigating budget constraints and driving innovation

Looking ahead to the upcoming budget speech, which is due to be delivered on 12 March 2025, Boltman anticipates financial challenges.

“We are all waiting with bated breath. Given the fiscal pressures, we may face further budget cuts. This means we’ll need to do more with less. The department must be innovative, leveraging ICT strategically and driving efficiency through dynamic leadership,” he noted.

A commitment to a stronger social development sector

For Boltman, serving as chairperson of the audit committee is about giving back.

“I take this role very seriously. I am proudly here because I want to contribute my experience from both the public and private sectors to help strengthen the department.

“This department touches all of us. We all have elderly relatives, disabled family members, or loved ones who rely on social grants. We owe it to them to ensure this department succeeds,” he concluded.

With Boltman’s leadership and the collective expertise of the newly appointed audit committee, the Department of Social Development is well-positioned to enhance financial accountability, improve service delivery, and reinforce its commitment to serving South Africa’s most vulnerable communities.