By Caroline Nassuuna
ICPAU
The Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda (ICPAU) has adopted the International Non-Profit Accounting Standard (INPAS) for use by Non-Profit Organisations (NPOs) in Uganda. The adoption marks a significant step towards strengthening transparency, accountability and consistency in the sector.
The announcement was made during the 31st ICPAU Annual Seminar, held from 2 – 4 September 2026, at Imperial Resort Beach Hotel and Online.
INPAS is the first internationally applicable accounting standard specifically developed for NPOs. It provides a single reporting framework covering NPO activities and is based on the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) for SMEs Accounting Standard, with modifications to address the unique needs of non-profit organisations.
While making the announcement, CPA Timothy David Ediomu – President, ICPAU noted that the standard seeks to streamline the preparation of financial statements, accompanying narrative reports and harmonised grant reports. It also takes a holistic approach by enabling financial and non-financial information to be presented together, with the broader goal of enhancing transparency and accountability in non-profit finances globally.
“The standard was developed through the International Financial Reporting for Non-Profit Organisations (IFR4NPO) project following extensive public consultations and the publication of three Exposure Drafts. The final version was approved by the Technical Advisory Group in July 2025 and officially launched the standard in October 2025,” noted Ediomu.
Uganda’s adoption follows ICPAU’s active participation in the development of the standard. The Institute submitted comments on all three Exposure Drafts and reviewed the final version before making the decision to adopt it nationally.
Under the Accountants Act, Cap 294, ICPAU is mandated to issue and adopt internationally accepted accounting and auditing standards, promote their use in Uganda and make suitable adaptations where necessary.
The Council’s decision means that new or amended topics and interpretations issued by the INPRF will generally become applicable in Uganda as they are issued, except where jurisdictional modifications are considered necessary. In such cases, implementation will be guided by the ICPAU Council.
“An implementation framework for this standard is being developed. Following public consultation, ICPAU will guide the NPOs to which the standard will apply, timelines for adoption and the extent of narrative reporting requirements, among other matters,” noted Ediomu.
According to ICPAU, the adoption is intended to establish a globally consistent and comprehensive financial reporting framework for Uganda’s NPO sector, standardise financial statement formats, improve the accounting treatment of grants and restricted funding, and strengthen donor confidence and sector credibility.
As part of the next steps, ICPAU will continue working with sector players and other stakeholders to build preparedness for compliance.
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