In a decisive move to safeguard the integrity of the accounting profession in Kenya, the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) has unveiled a new digital verification system aimed at rooting out unqualified individuals posing as accountants.
Beginning August 1, 2025, all certified public accountants will be required to include a Unique Document Identification Number (UDIN) on financial statements they prepare. The UDIN, generated through a newly developed ICPAK platform, will feature a unique QR code and serial number that clients, regulators, and other stakeholders can use to verify the authenticity of financial documents.
“The institute is taking proactive steps to minimize risks posed by quacks in the profession and to uphold the credibility and reliability of licensed accountants,” said ICPAK Chairman Philip Kakai.
Despite ongoing efforts such as credential verification, routine monitoring, and stakeholder education, Kakai noted that many users of financial statements remain unable to independently confirm the legitimacy of the documents or the professionals behind them. He warned that impersonators continue to undermine trust in the profession by offering false financial advice, falsifying records, and engaging in other deceptive practices.
“This new system empowers stakeholders with a practical tool to authenticate financial documents and identify licensed practitioners,” Kakai emphasized.
To ensure smooth implementation and widespread adoption, ICPAK plans to engage key stakeholders, including regulatory bodies and procurement institutions, ahead of the platform’s official rollout.
The UDIN initiative is expected to bolster transparency and restore public confidence in Kenya’s accounting sector by protecting the space rightfully occupied by qualified professionals.
Written By Rodney Mbua
