Zambia Commemorates African Anti-Corruption Day with Emphasis on Whistleblower Protection
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) of Zambia joins the rest of the continent in celebrating the 8th Edition of African Anti-Corruption Day.
This year’s theme, “Effective Whistleblower Protection Mechanism: A Critical Tool in the Fight Against Corruption,” underscores the pivotal role of whistleblowers in combating corruption.
African Anti-Corruption Day, established by the African Union (AU) in 2003, marks the adoption of the African Union Convention on Prevention and Combating Corruption (AUCPCC) in Maputo, Mozambique. Each year on 11th July, AU member states reflect on the dangers of corruption and evaluate their efforts in fighting the scourge.
Director-General of the ACC, Mr. Thom Shamakamba, emphasized the importance of whistleblowers in providing vital information to law enforcement agencies.
Zambia’s Public Interest Disclosure (Whistle Blowers) Act No.4 of 2010 protects individuals who report illegal activities, aiming to instill confidence in the public to speak out against corruption without fear of reprisal.
Mr. Shamakamba encouraged citizens to report suspected corruption cases, highlighting the recent launch of the Online Anonymous Whistleblower System (OAWS).
This platform allows individuals to report corruption anonymously and track the progress of their reports, ensuring their safety and encouraging more people to come forward.
In line with this year’s theme, the ACC has planned various community engagements, including road shows, exhibitions, and radio programs nationwide.
These activities aim to raise awareness about the crucial role of whistleblowers and reinforce the ACC’s commitment to curbing corruption.
Mr. Shamakamba concluded by urging Zambians to actively participate in the fight against corruption, assuring them of the ACC’s ongoing efforts to create a safer environment for whistleblowers through robust legal and administrative frameworks.
