Reported by: S Ernest.
Date: 22nd January, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
Zambia is taking decisive steps to reinforce its commitment to transparency, integrity, and the rule of law.
Addressing a key national consultative meeting, a significant milestone in the revision of the Anti-Corruption Act No. 3 of 2012, the importance of creating a robust framework to tackle corruption was underscored.
The proposed Anti-Corruption (Amendment) Bill, 2024, approved by the Cabinet last year, reflects a renewed determination to eradicate corruption from all sectors of Zambian society.
This legislation is a cornerstone of President Hakainde Hichilema’s pledge to establish a “zero-tolerance” stance against corruption.
“This will be our hallmark,” he has reiterated, emphasizing the government’s resolve to eliminate corruption and foster accountability in public and private institutions.
Corruption undermines economic growth, social equity and public trust in institutions. Recognizing this, the revised act aims to close loopholes, hold perpetrators accountable and safeguard public resources.
This initiative also aligns with international frameworks such as the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) and Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16), promoting peace, justice and strong institutions.
Key stakeholders, led by the Zambia Law Development Commission (ZLDC), are working to ensure the revised act is comprehensive and aligned with global best practices.
This consultative process demonstrates Zambia’s commitment to inclusivity, good governance and the creation of an effective legal instrument.
The revised Anti-Corruption Act is not merely legislation; it is a tool for national transformation. It aims to create a society anchored in good governance, transparency, and accountability, with strong, independent institutions driving sustainable development.
The New Dawn government is steadfast in empowering anti-corruption bodies to operate autonomously and impartially, ensuring justice and integrity prevail.
As President Hichilema’s administration intensifies efforts to combat corruption, the words of Zambia’s founding father, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, resonates: “Corruption is a disease that eats away at the very fabric of our society and we must take drastic measures to eradicate it.”
This landmark meeting is a call to action for stakeholders to actively contribute to this transformative process. Zambia through President Hichilema is building a future defined by integrity, justice and equitable progress.
Picture Credit: Zanis
Ministry of Justice, Zambia
Zambia Law Development Commission
German Embassy Lusaka
Anti- Corruption Commission Zambia
The Agency
