Govt Introduces Risk Management Policy to Safeguard Essential Services
The Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Ms Doreen Mwamba, has officially launched the Risk Management Policy, a framework designed to strengthen the Ministry’s capacity to anticipate, assess, and respond to risks while ensuring continuity of essential services to vulnerable citizens.
Speaking at the launch this morning, Ms Mwamba underscored the importance of proactive risk management in today’s complex environment, where the Ministry’s work directly impacts the lives of the poor and vulnerable.
“Whether it is through Community Development, Child Welfare, or Social Welfare services, we must ensure that we are not only effective but also resilient in the face of uncertainty,” she said.
The Minister noted that the policy will provide all departments and units within the Ministry with a common approach to identifying, assessing, and responding to risks, whether operational, financial, or strategic.
She stressed that the framework would enable greater preparedness while safeguarding the delivery of essential services. “It is a blueprint for building a culture of anticipation, preparedness and continuous improvement,” she added.
Ms Mwamba further highlighted that the policy aligns with government’s wider agenda to strengthen public sector management, enhance service delivery, and uphold the highest standards of accountability.
Ministry Chief Risk Officer, Mr Miselo Chita, described the policy as a strategic enabler. He urged all departments to take ownership of the framework, emphasising that formalising how the Ministry anticipates, responds to, and learns from risks would protect operations and preserve the dignity of the poor and vulnerable.
The launch of the Risk Management Policy marks a significant step towards embedding resilience and accountability in the delivery of public services, particularly for communities most in need.
