Solwezi, North-Western Province – 14th February 2025 – In a historic moment for the North-Western Province’s fight against organised crime, Solwezi hosted the official rollout of the Inter-Agency Framework on Cooperation and Collaboration (The Framework). Against the elegant backdrop of the Royal Solwezi Hotel, leaders and representatives from 21 key institutions united under the banner of “One Zambia, One Nation.”
Deputy Chief State Advocate for North-Western Province, Ms. Sekelebaka Muwamba, set the tone with her opening remarks. “We cannot afford to slumber,” she declared. “We must stay ahead of criminals and prevent them from benefiting from their ill-gotten wealth.” Her call for urgency, vigilance, and collaboration resonated deeply. “The Framework represents our shared commitment to cooperation, coordination, and collaboration in the pursuit of justice. Together, we can build safer, more just communities.”
Judge Musukwa, the Judge-in-Charge of the High Court, emphasised the importance of institutional cooperation in ensuring justice. Provincial Minister Felix Mulenga highlighted the Framework’s role in addressing regional challenges, while Ms. Kasese, Bank of Zambia Regional Director for the Copperbelt, delivered a powerful message on behalf of Governor Dr. Denny Kalyalya. She reiterated the bank’s commitment to financial inclusion and robust payment systems, underscoring its critical role in combating economic crime.
Deputy Ambassador Kevin O’Sullivan from the Irish Embassy, standing in for the Ambassador, brought a message of international solidarity. “Ireland stands with Zambia in this journey,” he said, reminding attendees that the fight for justice knows no borders.
Transparency International Zambia (TI-Z) Executive Director, Mr. Maurice K. Nyambe, delivered a rousing speech, stressing the need for united efforts to combat corruption and illicit financial flows. “This framework is a tangible step toward realising the vision we’ve long championed at our Anti-Corruption Conference,” he said, celebrating the Framework as a decisive response to challenges highlighted in the recent Corruption Perceptions Index.
The event was also a celebration of hope and unity. The Bank of Zambia (BoZ) Choir delivered an uplifting performance, while renowned Zambian artist Tio added a creative touch, reminding everyone of art’s power to inspire change.
In a defining moment, Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Gilbert A. Phiri SC, Chairperson of the Steering Committee, handed copies of the signed Framework to the newly appointed Technical Committee members for the North-Western Province chapter. “It is the unwavering commitment of our institutions, working as one, that will transform our nation’s destiny,” he declared, urging the committee to drive the Framework’s success.
The Bank of Zambia’s commitment was further emphasised in a speech delivered on behalf of the Governor. Highlighting strides in financial stability, payment systems, and formalising transactions, the representative reaffirmed the bank’s dedication. “We stand ready, with our Regional Office in Ndola, to facilitate the functioning of this collaborative framework in North-Western Province,” they declared. Notably, the Bank of Zambia financed the roll-out in both the Copperbelt and North-Western Provinces, reflecting its commitment to financial inclusion and stability.
The expansion of the Framework to the Copperbelt and North-Western Provinces is both timely and strategic. These mineral-rich regions are often hotspots for economic and financial crimes. The successful implementation of the Framework in Lusaka set a strong precedent, and its roll-out in these areas signals a united effort to safeguard Zambia’s future.
The Solwezi launch was more than a ceremonial event – it was a vibrant celebration of unity, resilience, and collective determination. As participants left inspired by the speeches, music, and palpable sense of purpose, one thing was clear: the Inter-Agency Framework on Cooperation and Collaboration is a cornerstone in Zambia’s pursuit of justice.
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