The Asset Recovery Inter-Agency Network for Southern Africa (ARINSA) convened its 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) from December 4-6 in Kasane, Botswana, under the theme “Strengthening Regional Collaboration for Effective Asset Recovery.”  This was held on the sidelines of the Southern Africa Heads of Prosecution (SAHOP) Forum first ever in person inaugural meeting! This highly anticipated gathering was co-hosted by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Mr. Gilbert A. Phiri, SC and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Celebrating 15 years of impactful contributions to combating illicit financial flows and promoting justice, the event brought together representatives from 17 member countries in the southern African region. Since its inception in 2009, ARINSA has grown from just two dedicated asset forfeiture units to 16 specialised offices across the region in 2024. This growth was a focal point of the AGM, which spotlighted ARINSA’s significant achievements. Among the cases highlighted were Botswana’s recovery of assets from the National Petroleum

The National Prosecution Authority (NPA) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Chandler Institute of Justice (CIJ) to strengthen transparency, accountability, and the rule of law in Zambia. Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Gilbert Phiri, speaking during the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding, highlighted the partnership’s focus on enhancing the NPA’s institutional capacity. Central to this collaboration is the provision of training in legislative drafting for NPA staff. “This initiative will empower our team with critical skills to promote integrity and good governance effectively,” Mr. Phiri stated, underscoring the importance of equipping staff to meet Zambia’s governance challenges. CIJ Executive Director Ron Chari expressed the institute’s commitment to supporting Zambia’s governance objectives, noting that the partnership aligns with efforts to build a solid foundation for economic growth and poverty alleviation. The collaboration marks a crucial moment for the NPA as it seeks to strengthen its role in delivering justice and upholding the principles of good governance in

The NPA and Paralegal Alliance Network (PAN) hosted a successful roundtable discussion on GBV case management and protection orders. The meeting highlighted the critical role of paralegals in supporting survivors by bridging the gap between themselves and prosecutors and ensuring access to justice. Paralegals from around Lusaka attended this milestone meeting. The agenda was dominated by the key issue of Restraining/Protection Orders and how the cooperation could be enhanced to ensure that more was done to ensure victims have access to these remedies. NPA and PAN remain confident that through collaboration, the fight against GBV can be won.

Established in the year 2023, the Southern Africa Heads of Prosecution (SAHOP) Forum, was formed with the aim of enhancing regional cooperation among the prosecution agencies in Southern Africa. This forum comprises Directors of Public Prosecutions (DPPs) and Prosecutor Generals from 15 countries in Southern Africa, all united by a common mission: to strengthen criminal justice systems, improve prosecution efficiency, and effectively combat transnational crime. The creation of SAHOP responds to the growing need for a coordinated regional effort in tackling critical issues such as corruption, organised crime, and illicit financial flows, which threaten the stability and development of the region. Since its inception, SAHOP has primarily convened through virtual platforms, allowing its members to engage and collaborate despite geographic distances. This model of virtual meetings has provided a foundation for sharing vital information and exchanging best practices among prosecution services. However, this December, from the 4th to 6th, SAHOP will host its first ever in-person meeting, co-hosted by Zambia’s

Did You Know?Globally, nearly 1 in 3 women, out of an estimated 736 million, have experienced physical or sexual violence at least once in their lives. Even more alarming, 55% of all female homicides are committed by intimate partners or family members, making the home the most dangerous place for many women. Ending Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is Everyone’s Responsibility.We therefore call on men and boys as well to take a stand. Lead by example, challenge harmful norms, respect women, and oppose violence in all its forms. True strength lies in fostering a culture of equality, respect, and safety for all Why does Gender Equality Matter-Empowering women and girls strengthens communities. When they thrive, everyone benefits. Ensuring their safety and providing them with opportunities is an investment in a stronger, brighter future for Zambia What Can You Do to Join the Fight Against GBV?• Educate yourself and others on the causes and impacts of GBV.• Speak Out against harmful stereotypes, attitudes,

We are reminded that Silence fuels abuse. It’s time to speak up, take action, and stand with victims! Every voice matters in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Together, we can create a world where survivors are heard, supported, and empowered. GBV is not a family or internal issue—it’s a community problem that demands a community solution. When one person suffers, the whole society feels the ripple effects. How can you play your part? If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, report it now:Zambia Police (Toll-Free): 991Lifeline Childline Zambia (Toll-Free): 116 We all have a role to play. Let’s work together for a Zambia free of violence and full of hope. Speak out. Stand up. Let’s end GBV! JoinTheFight#OrangeTheWorld#StopGenderBasedViolence #ActivismForChange #BreakTheSilence#EndGBV prosectorsnactivists#NPA

As we approach 30 years since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action was promulgated, we are reminded of our overarching duty both as the National Prosecution Authority as well as Activists in the fight against Gender Based Violence. As such, the National Prosecution Authority of Zambia reaffirms its unwavering commitment to ending violence against women and girls. We, as an institution are dedicated to fostering equity,inclusivity and respect internally as we provide and strive for a healthy and sexist free work environment. We also strive to provide a victim centred and trauma informed Prosecution service to all victims of GBV, our goal is to hold perpetrators accountable and deter would be offenders, penultimately delivering justice for all. As we join the global movement of 16 days of activism against GBV, you are all reminded that the fight against GBV starts with YOU!. Let’s break the silence and build a safe Zambia for all! As the NPA we pledge to:

The Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA), in partnership with the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), a United Nations organization, launched a two-day in-service training program for prosecutors on 19th November 2024 in Lusaka.  During the opening ceremony, Minister of Technology, Honorable Felix Mutati, through Director of Communications Mr. Milner Makuni, emphasized the rapid pace of technological advancements and the importance of equipping prosecutors with skills to keep up with these changes. ITU representative Anne Ssembonga and ZICTA Acting Director-General Eng. Collins Mbulo reiterated the need for prosecutors to enhance their understanding of digital evidence and develop the legal expertise to analyze and argue cases involving electronic data.  Representing the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Chief State Advocate Ms. Nkumbiza Mumba highlighted the critical role of prosecutors in staying ahead of cybercriminals. She pointed out how digital technology is being used in crimes such as financial fraud, wildlife trafficking, gender-based violence, and other fraudulent activities, stressing the need for continued