Determinants of internal audit in the audit of strategic risk of state corporations in Kenya

Abstract

This study aims to establish the determinants of internal audit in the audit of strategic risk in state corporations in Kenya. It further examines the relationship between audit of strategic risk and the determinants of internal audit. A quantitative research approach was employed in this research. This was further complemented by a descriptive survey design. An email based questionnaire was used to collect data. Findings were drawn from the questionnaire survey distributed to 178 state corporations in Kenya targeting internal auditors. This study also provides descriptive information on the determinants of internal audit. The determinants of internal audit were found to play an important role in the audit of strategic risk. Management support of the functions of the internal audit as a determinant of internal audit was seen as the most influencing factor compared to the other determinants, The determinants included independence of the internal audit function, presence of a risk management unit, budgetary allocation to internal audit, and internal auditors' skills. Almost all the internal auditors questioned considered strategic risk as a key determinant in their audit mission. The findings disclose a clear picture of the determinants of internal audit in the audit of strategic risk, as well as an enhanced appreciation of the strategic role of internal audit in state corporations. This study reveals the determinants of internal audit in the audit of strategic risk of state corporations in Kenya. It also provides a framework that would guide internal auditors as they audit strategic risk in their organizations. Although this study was limited to state corporations in Kenya, the findings could be extended to different country settings which would provide great opportunities for future research.