CPA Ben Patrick Kagoro, the 6th President of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda (ICPAU), has been awarded the prestigious ICPAU Gold Service Award 2025 in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the accountancy profession over the past 28 years.
The award was presented during the 10th Accountancy Service Awards held at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel.
Kagoro has left a lasting legacy in nurturing talent, professionalising finance functions, and strengthening governance both within ICPAU and across national institutions. His efforts include expanding the Deposit Protection Fund from billions to trillions, mentoring generations of accountants, and setting transformative policies that enhanced institutional administration.
In his acceptance speech, CPA Kagoro dedicated the award to his wife, acknowledging her pivotal role in his personal and professional journey. “I dedicate this award not to myself, but to the people who trusted me throughout my career,” he said.
“When you have brilliant staff around you, do not suppress them. Let them shine. When you make others shine, you shine too — and in doing so, you build the future of your organisations and our profession.”
He also highlighted the mentors who shaped his career, including Dr Louis Kasekende and Professor Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile. “Because of their trust, I resolved to devote my life to mentoring others, building companies, and strengthening ICPAU — which I consider part of my DNA,” Kagoro added.
The award citation praised his long-standing service: “He has facilitated internship placements for CPA graduates, professionalised finance and audit functions across multiple institutions, and chaired key boards, leaving an indelible mark on Uganda’s accounting landscape.”
In his keynote address, Chief Guest and Minister of State for Finance, CPA Hon. Henry Musasizi, commended ICPAU for driving milestones in financial reporting, including Uganda’s adoption roadmap for IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards and contributions to the forthcoming International Non-Profit Accounting Standard (INPAS).
“Excellence in service is noble, but serving with diligence, passion, and integrity is honourable,” Musasizi said, quoting Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.”
He pledged continued government support for the accountancy profession, including professionalisation of cadres, membership support, and financial assistance where resources permit. “In the spirit of patriotism, I also wish all Ugandans a Happy Independence Day in advance, reminding us that serving our country with excellence is the ultimate honour.”
CPA Timothy David Ediomu, ICPAU President, also congratulated Kagoro, noting: “Accountancy is more than numbers; it is about leadership, innovation, accountability, and above all, creating impact. CPA Kagoro exemplifies excellence that transforms businesses, uplifts communities, and inspires the next generation.”
The #ASAwardsAt10 not only recognised individual achievement but reaffirmed the values of professionalism, service, and patriotism within Uganda’s accounting sector, setting a benchmark for future generations.
