INSTITUTE of Chartered Accountants of Zimbabwe (Icaz) president Manyara Chigunduru says Forvis Mazars’ entry into Zimbabwe will offer local businesses access to global networks.
Forvis is a merger between two leading professional services firms, Forvis Mazars LLP and Forvis Mazars Group SC, creating an international partnership with a footprint in over 100 countries.
“The entry of Forvis Mazars into Zimbabwe marks a significant milestone for our profession. It signals not only the growth and potential of our market, but also the increasing recognition of Zimbabwe as a key player on the global stage,” Chigunduru said at the official launch of Forvis in Zimbabwe last Thursday in Harare.
“Forvis Mazars brings with it a wealth of international experience, cutting edge methodologies, and a commitment to excellence in the values we uphold at Icaz. We’re excited about the opportunities this global entity presents. Forvis Mazars presence in Zimbabwe will undoubtedly enhance the quality and scope of services to our businesses. It will provide local firms with access to global networks, expertise and innovative practices.”
The firm specialises in audit, tax and advisory services.
The arrival of Forvis comes at a time when the world’s leading professional services firm, Deloitte, exited the country back in February with another top firm, PriceWaterhouseCoopers Africa, also announcing its plan to exit Zimbabwe.
Chigunduru said the partnership opened doors for collaboration, knowledge exchange and the development of skills among auditing and accounting professionals.
“It also positions Zimbabwe as a competitive destination for global business, showcasing our ability to meet international standards,” she said.
Chigunduru said Zimbabwe has an important market for Forvis for several reasons, including its central location in the Sadc region in which the firm wants to increase its footprint in.
Forvis managing partner in Zimbabwe, Lovemore Kamuzangaza, said they were up to the challenge.
“We are introducing something that we call ‘Agility at Scale’, the ability to act fast. We want to come to you and be able to deliver when you need us to. We want to come to you and deliver seamless collaboration. I think you heard from Sebastien [Forvis Mazars business development and marketing director, Sebastien de Place] talking about the way we collaborate international audits across the African continent,” he said.
“I had to learn these things and actually have mentors, the other managing partners from the continent that I work with. So, we are introducing this seamless coordination, greater insight – we have more than 10 centres of excellence across Africa and in the world which will help us deliver quality services.”