Frequently Asked Questions
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CONGRESS FAQs
Q: What is ACOA 2025?
ACOA stands for the Africa Congress of Accountants, a major event for professional accountants and stakeholders in the accountancy ecosystem in Africa.
Q: What is the theme for ACOA 2025?
The theme for ACOA 2025 is “Creating Value for Africa”.
Q: Who can attend ACOA 2025?
ACOA 2025 is open to accountants, accounting and finance professionals from various sectors, industry leaders, academics, students and stakeholders in the accountancy ecosystem across the continent and beyond.
Q: When and where will the ACOA 2025 be held?
The ACOA will be held from 6 to 9 May 2025 at the Kigali Convention Centre in Kigali, Rwanda.
Q: What are the registration fees for ACOA 2025?
The registration fees for ACOA 2025 are as follows:
Fee for all delegates – USD 700
Fee for accompanying persons – USD 350
Q: How do I register for ACOA 2025?
You can register for ACOA 2025 by visiting https://imis.icparwanda.com/#/event-acoa/247, completing the online registration form and paying the required fee.
Q: Is it possible to cancel my registration?
We understand that plans can change, and we’ve designed a flexible cancellation policy to accommodate our delegates. If you need to cancel your registration, the following refund structure will apply:
60 Days Before the Event: Receive a 75% refund of your registration fee.
30 Days Before the Event: Receive a 50% refund of your registration fee.
Please note that cancellations made less than 30 days before the event will not be eligible for a refund. To request a cancellation, kindly contact us at [acoa@icparwanda.com]. All refunds will be processed within 14 business days.
HOSTS FAQs
Q: Who is the host of ACOA 2025?
The congress is hosted by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (ICPAR) under the auspices of the Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA).
Q: What is ICPAR?
ICPAR stands for the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda, the professional body for accountants in Rwanda, responsible for regulating and promoting the accounting profession in the country.
Q: What is PAFA?
PAFA stands for the Pan African Federation of Accountants, an organisation that represents professional accountants in Africa and promotes the accountancy profession across the continent.
Q: What is the role of the Organizing Committee for ACOA 2025?
The Organizing Committee oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of ACOA 2025 to ensure a successful and impactful event.
Q: Who are the members of the Organizing Committee?
The committee is composed of representatives from key institutions, industry experts, and stakeholders who contribute to the success of ACOA 2025.
Q: What sub-committees support the Organizing Committee?
Several sub-committees focus on different aspects of the event, such as content development, logistics, sponsorship, marketing, finance, protocol, and technology.
Q: How are committee & sub-committee members selected?
Members are selected based on their expertise, institutional representation, and ability to contribute to the success of ACOA 2025.
Q: How often do the committees meet?
Committees hold regular meetings, with frequency depending on the planning phase—more frequent meetings occur as the event date approaches.
Q: Can I join the Organizing Committee or a sub-committee?
Membership is typically by invitation, but if you are interested in contributing, you may reach out to the ACOA Secretariat for possible engagement opportunities.
Q: Can non-committee members contribute to ACOA 2025?
Yes! Volunteers, experts, and stakeholders can contribute through speaking opportunities, sponsorship, research papers, and event support. For inquiries, collaboration, or further details, please contact the ACOA Secretariat at [acoa@icparwanda.com].
Q: What happens after ACOA 2025?
The Organizing Committee will conduct a post-event review, share key outcomes, and provide recommendations for future congresses.
PROGRAMME FAQs
Q: What is the Theme for ACOA 2025?
The theme, “Creating Value for Africa,” reflects a unified commitment to leveraging the power of accountancy to drive meaningful change and prosperity across the continent. It highlights the vital role of professional accountants in innovating, collaborating, and leading initiatives that deliver sustainable economic, social, and environmental benefits for Africa and its people.
This theme underscores the accountancy profession’s crucial part in unlocking Africa’s potential and shaping a brighter future for all.
Q: What are the Congress's Objectives?
ACOA 2025 is dedicated to enhancing collaboration, facilitating knowledge exchange, and promoting professional growth within Africa’s accountancy sector. By bringing together professional accountants and key stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, industries, and regions, the congress strives to elevate standards of practice, foster excellence in the profession, and address the common challenges faced by accountants across the continent.
Q: What can delegates expect from the ACOA 2025 programme?
A: Delegates can look forward to a comprehensive programme featuring keynote speeches from industry leaders, panel discussions, workshops, networking sessions and exhibitions. The programme will cover a wide range of topics relevant to the accountancy profession in Africa.
Q: Are there any pre-congress workshops or seminars?
A: Details about pre-congress workshops or seminars will be provided on the ACOA 2025 website. These sessions often offer additional learning and networking opportunities for early arrivals.
PARTNERSHIPS FAQs
Q: What partnership opportunities are available?
ACOA 2025 offers three categories:
Sponsors – For premium visibility and branding
Exhibitors – To showcase products/services
Partners – Strategic collaborators offering expertise, media, or support
Q: Can international companies participate?
Yes! Global sponsors, exhibitors, and partners are welcome. Virtual and in-person options are available.
Q: Is there a deadline for applying?
Yes, deadlines vary by category. Early application is advised to secure your spot and maximize visibility. Contact: acoa.partnership@icparwanda.com for more information
Q: What sponsorship levels are available? Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Participating tiers, each with tailored benefits. À la carte options are also available.
Q: What benefits do sponsors receive? Depending on the tier: Branding on event materials, Exhibition booth space, Speaking opportunities (Platinum, Gold, Silver), VIP access, Media exposure and social media mentions
Q: How can we become a sponsor?
Email: acoa.partnership@icparwanda.com
Q: What are the benefits of exhibiting? Exhibitors gain direct access to industry leaders, networking, and brand exposure. Packages include: Branded booth, Access to networking sessions, Event catalogue listing
Q: How is booth space allocated?
On a first-come, first-served basis, with priority for higher sponsorship tiers.
Q: What do partners contribute?
Partners support ACOA 2025 through knowledge-sharing, media coverage, tech integration, or strategic collaboration.
Q: Who can become a partner?
Academic institutions, media houses, professional bodies, government agencies, and NGOs.
Q: What are the benefits for media partners?
Access to exclusive content, branding, interviews, and event coverage.
Q: Are in-kind partnerships accepted?
Yes – including media coverage, technical support, or professional expertise in exchange for visibility.
DESTINATION FAQs
Q: What languages are used in Rwanda? Kinyarwanda is the national language of Rwanda and is spoken by nearly the entire population. It is one of the country’s official languages, alongside French, English, and Swahili. To ensure a seamless experience for all delegates, Congress staff will be available to assist with any language-related matters. Simultaneous interpretation will also be provided during plenary sessions in English, French, and Portuguese.
Q: How do I stay connected in Rwanda?
You can purchase a local SIM card at the airport or local shops. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and at the conference venue.
Q: What is the weather like in Kigali around May?
In May, Kigali enters the beginning of the dry season, experiencing reduced rainfall compared to previous months. Temperatures typically range from around 15°C to 27°C (59°F to 81°F). While rain is less frequent, occasional showers are still possible. Expect mild and relatively stable weather conditions, but it is always wise to be prepared for changes.
Q: What is Rwanda's local currency?
The Rwandan Franc (FRW) is the official currency of Rwanda. Major international currencies can be exchanged at banks and authorized exchange bureaus. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it's recommended to carry cash for smaller businesses and markets or use mobile transfers.
Q: What are the must-visit attractions in Rwanda?
Rwanda offers incredible experiences, including:
Kigali City Tour – Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and cultural sites.
Volcanoes National Park – Home to the famous mountain gorillas.
Akagera National Park – A Big Five safari destination.
Lake Kivu – A scenic lakeside retreat with boat tours and relaxation spots.
Nyungwe Forest – Known for canopy walks and primate tracking.
Q: Is Rwanda safe for travelers?
Yes, Rwanda is one of the safest countries in Africa, with low crime rates and efficient security services. However, travelers should take general precautions as they would in any other country.
Q: What is the time zone in Rwanda?
Rwanda operates on Central Africa Time (CAT), UTC+2, with no daylight saving time adjustments.
Q: What emergency contacts should I have?
Police: 112
Medical Emergency: 912
Tourism Assistance: Rwanda Development Board (RDB) +250 727 775 170
Q: What cultural etiquette should I be aware of?
Greetings are important – A handshake or a warm "Muraho" (Hello) is common.
Respect for elders is valued – Always address senior people with courtesy.
Modest dress is recommended when visiting public places and cultural sites.
Plastic bags are banned – Bring reusable bags if needed.
Q: Where can I get more travel information?
Visit Rwanda’s official tourism website and www.rcb.rw for more details on travel tips, attractions, and cultural experiences.