The (ACC) held its annual Chief Executive Officers’ Forum at the Kenneth Kaunda Wing of the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka. The event brought together leaders from government institutions nationwide to reinforce the role of Integrity Committees (ICs) in combating corruption.
The 2024 CEO’s Forum, themed “Mainstreaming National Values and Principles: Towards a Corruption-Free Zambia,” centered on institutionalizing national values and strengthening ethical governance. In his keynote address, the Guest of Honour, Mr. Patrick Kangwa, Secretary to the Cabinet and Chairperson of the National Integrity Committee, reiterated the government’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy on corruption, as reflected in the National Policy on Anti-Corruption launched by President Hakainde Hichilema in May 2024. Mr. Kangwa urged institutions to implement best practices, such as whistleblower protections and conflict-of-interest policies, and underscored the importance of patriotism, morality, and sustainable development.
On the National Anti-Corruption slogan, “A corruption-free Zambia begins with me,” Mr. Kangwa reminded attendees, stressing the significance of ownership and personal accountability in fighting corruption in all spheres of life.
ACC Acting Director General, Mrs. Monica Chipanta Mwansa, highlighted the essential role of ICs in promoting accountability and ethical standards. She reported that the number of Integrity Committees has increased to 236, a significant rise from last year, though she noted that 58% of these committees remain inactive. Mrs. Mwansa called for stronger support from CEOs to activate and empower these ICs fully.
The forum also celebrated institutions that have excelled in integrity practices. Among the top awardees were NAPSA, recognized as the Overall Integrity Champion, followed by REA and ZRA. Luanshya Municipal Council won the top prize in the Local Authority category, while the Ministry of Technology and Science took first place in the mainstream government category.
The forum provided a collaborative platform for established and emerging IC institutions to exchange best practices, successes, and address challenges, contributing toward a more transparent and accountable Zambia.Read more
Saturday,November 2, 2024