Zambia’s Anti-Corruption Drive Gains Momentum with Technology-Centric Integrity Forum
The Deputy Director General of the Drug Enforcement Commission took an active role in the Integrity Committee Chief Executive Officers forum organized by the Anti-Corruption Commission.
The event, held at the Mulungushi International Conference Center in Lusaka, focused on leveraging technology to combat corruption, emphasizing e-governance and the integration of government systems.
CEOs and Permanent Secretaries from both government and private institutions, each equipped with established integrity committees nationwide, converged at the forum. Under the theme, “Preventing Corruption through Implementation of E-Governance and Integration of Government Systems,” the discussions underscored the pivotal role of technology in enhancing transparency and accountability.
During the official opening ceremony, Secretary to the Cabinet, Mr. Patrick Kangwa, issued a challenge to CEOs, urging them to actively contribute to the improvement of ordinary citizens’ lives by taking immediate action against corruption within their workplaces.
Mr. Kangwa expressed satisfaction with the ongoing efforts, citing the establishment of 173 Integrity Committees in various government institutions.
He highlighted the government’s commitment to digital growth through the operationalization of e-governance, as outlined in statutory instrument No. 43 of 2023, aligning with President Hakainde Hichilema’s vision for accelerating technological development.
Simultaneously, the ACC Director General announced plans to launch a new whistle-blower system before the end of 2023. This system aims to empower the public to lodge complaints and report issues from any location, thereby enhancing the accessibility and responsiveness of the anti-corruption initiative.
In recognition of outstanding integrity, the forum took a moment to commend individuals who demonstrated high levels of ethical conduct in their workplaces.
While acknowledging the progress made, it is emphasized that corruption remains a significant precursor to money laundering, underscoring its importance in the broader fight against financial crimes.
The Drug Enforcement Commission reaffirms its commitment to collaborating with all stakeholders to curb vices that impede equitable resource distribution and deprive Zambians of their rights.
