Abstract:
Traditional financial reporting systems have geared towards the single-bottom line reporting in the form
of profitability. However, there are arguments that corporate reporting systems should not just dwell on
a single-bottom line but should be reported upon on three elements comprising economic/financial,
social and environmental elements that constitute the triple-bottom line. This study aimed at empirically
researching on what current practices corporate business executives and financial managers deploy in
their corporate financial reporting systems. The focus of the study was on the assessment of the
relevance of either the single-bottom line or triple-bottom line reporting systems within an African
framework. Data was collected using the structured questionnaire that was administered across
different countries from Southern Africa. The study results reveal that a sustainability (triple-bottom
line) reporting system has been embraced by many organisations in Africa. The study findings suggest
that there is a need to review and redesign accounting and financial principles and policies so that they
are aligned with the emerging triple-bottom line reporting system requirements. The study findings will
be of much relevance to academics, researchers and industry practitioners.
