Lusaka, November 1, 2024 – The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) convened its annual Chief Executive Officers’ Forum at the Kenneth Kaunda Wing of the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka. This significant gathering brought together leaders from various government institutions across the nation to reinforce the role of Integrity Committees (ICs) in the fight against corruption. The forum, themed “Mainstreaming National Values and Principles: Towards a Corruption-Free Zambia,” focused on embedding national values and enhancing ethical governance.
During his keynote address, Secretary to the Cabinet and Chairperson of the National Integrity Committee, Mr. Patrick K. Kangwa, reaffirmed the government’s steadfast commitment to a zero-tolerance policy on corruption, as outlined in the National Policy on Anti-Corruption launched by President Hakainde Hichilema in May 2024. He urged institutions to adopt best practices such as implementing service charters, establishing whistleblower protections, and enforcing conflict-of-interest policies. Mr. Kangwa stressed the importance of patriotism, morality, and sustainable development in achieving these goals.
Mr. Kangwa also emphasised the significance of the national anti-corruption slogan, “A corruption-free Zambia begins with me,” reminding participants of their personal responsibility in combating corruption. The Acting Director General of the ACC, Mrs. Monica Chipanta Mwansa, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the essential role of Integrity Committees in fostering accountability and ethical standards. She reported a commendable increase in the number of ICs to 236; however, she noted that 58% of these committees remain inactive and called for greater support from CEOs to fully empower them.
The forum celebrated exemplary institutions and individuals demonstrating integrity in their practices. Among the award recipients was Mr. David Mwamba, a Public Prosecutor from the National Prosecution Authority (NPA), recognized for his dedication as an anti-gender violence activist. He declined a gift from the father of a victim, he reported the incident to the Integrity Committee at the NPA, which instead prompted the father to commend his actions in a letter to the NPA. Another notable awardee, Mr. Brighton Nkoma from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, received recognition for rejecting a substantial bribe of ZMW 100,000 from accused individuals, which led to a successful prosecution and subsequent five-year sentences for the offenders. Both Mr. Mwamba and Mr. Nkoma among 7 others were honoured with a lapel pin, an undisclosed monetary award, and a small gift, while other nominees received commendation letters, reinforcing the importance of ethical conduct in public service.
Recognised institutions for their integrity efforts included the National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA), named the Overall Integrity Champion, followed by the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) and Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA). Luanshya Municipal Council secured the top prize in the Local Authority category, while the Ministry of Technology and Science was acknowledged as the best in the mainstream government category.
The forum served as a collaborative platform for both established and emerging Integrity Committees, facilitating the exchange of best practices, successes, and challenges, all contributing to a more transparent and accountable Zambia.