The Anti Corruption Commission (ACC) has collaborated with the Curriculum Development Centre (CDC) under the Ministry of General Education to produce reading materials that will bear anti-corruption messages meant to inculcate values of integrity in school pupils. The Anti Corruption Commission (ACC) has collaborated with the Curriculum Development Centre (CDC) under the Ministry of General Education to produce reading materials that will bear anti-corruption messages meant to inculcate values of integrity in school pupils.
Speaking at the commemoration of the International Anti- Corruption Day on December 9 2015, President Lungu pledged government’s commitment to strengthen the ACC so that officers acquire skills to help deal with modern economic and financial crimes.
“I do not subscribe to making public pronouncements on anti-corruption for the sake of it. But I understand the gravity of this, this is a serious matter which must be left to professional institutions to handle without undue influence,” the president said.
“My government will continue respecting the autonomy of the operations of law enforcement agencies and in particular the Anti-Corruption Commission to enable them exercise professionalism and diligence,” he added.
President Lungu further signaled a warning that any public office holder found wanting will not be shielded.
He later committed government to non-interference of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).
And United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Zambian Director Martim Faria Maya disclosed that research has shown that corruption is lower in countries with a higher degree of female participation in public life.
She explained that countries where economic growth seems to be higher is where people have regard and trust towards each other and respect civic norms.
Ms. Maya further called on individuals to take keen interest in fighting corruption and not leave the task to government alone.
“While the state has an inescapable role and duty to curb corruption, it is equally important that the fight against corruption continues to target changes in individual attitudes and values,” she said.
She further stressed the need for corruption to be battled so that resources are channeled to the targeted beneficiaries and the country’s development.
“Every Ngwee and every Kwacha counts in the achievement of positive and sustainable national development outcome and every Kwacha lost in the system deprives some people of a social service or good, a safe road, a clean environment, a text book for a child, a dedicated law enforcement agent, a vaccine or a life-saving intervention,” Ms. Maya said.
Ms. Maya commended the Zambian government for declaring zero tolerance on corruption but was quick to add that it will require all citizens to play a role in fighting the vice.