Accounting and Control Procedures for Inventory Management in ENEO Cameroon: Implications for Power Supply Reliability

Abstract

A dependable supply of electricity is essential for the socio-economic advancement of any nation. Nevertheless, Cameroon persists in experiencing regular power outages despite its significant hydropower capacity. This article evaluates the accounting and control procedures for inventory ordering, receiving, storing, and issuing, and analyses their impact on energy supply stability. A descriptive case study design was utilised, employing a mixed-methods approach that integrated surveys from 131 staff members with 10 Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with senior personnel. Quantitative data were examined by descriptive statistics, whereas qualitative data from interviews and document analyses were thematically assessed to corroborate conclusions. Findings indicated that inventory ordering is frequently reactive and centralised at the headquarters, resulting in procurement delays; inventory receiving is inadequately monitored and inspected, heightening the risk of defective or missing materials; inventory storage is characterised by inadequate labelling, irregular counts, and inconsistent access control, complicating stock retrieval; and inventory issuing is hindered by sporadic lapses in authorisation and inconsistent timeliness. Control and accounting procedures exhibit deficiencies, including insufficient segregation of duties, tardy ledger updates, and incomplete adherence to valuation and depreciation rules. Key Informant Interviews validated these findings, highlighting obstacles in procurement, oversight, and paperwork that directly impact the reliability of energy delivery. The study asserts that bolstering internal controls, decentralising procurement, conducting frequent audits, and adopting digital inventory management systems are essential for improving operational efficiency and mitigating power disruptions. Policy recommendations encompass human capacity enhancement, explicit operational protocols, and technology interventions to ensure power supply stability in Cameroon.