This morning, Transparency International Zambia (TI-Z) and the Drug Enforcement Commission
(DEC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to work jointly on fighting corruption and
money laundering in Zambia. The two organizations, whose collective resolve is to rid Zambia of
the evils of corruption, drug abuse and maladministration among other vices, are cognizant of
the need to work collaboratively in order to leverage on collective strengths and abilities in the
quest to contribute to the betterment of Zambia.
TI-Z through its People Engagement and Advocacy Programme are working at fostering
attitudinal and behavioural change among people through empowering them to be aware of and
claim their rights, hold their leaders and service providers accountable and for them to act in
ethical ways. Additionally, DEC is anchored on six values that guide its operations and these
include integrity, teamwork, innovation, confidentiality, impartiality and accountability. Therefore,
it is evident that DEC and TI-Z share common ground in the two values of integrity and
accountability. This provides a good launch pad for these concerted efforts. Among the key
interventions to be undertaken through this MoU will be the following:
- Implementation of agreed strategies of community participation and monitoring of public
service provision and maladministration as well as reporting of any money laundering
practices resulting from corruption. - Supporting the development of Integrity tools such as the Code of Ethics, Service Charters,
Whistle-blowers’ Policy, Gifts policy etc. - Jointly developing and disseminating information relating to TI-Z and DEC services to the
public and the role of the DEC in the fight against corruption. - Jointly providing technical support towards people’s demand for effective services to the
public.
Therefore, the MoU being signed today is a significant statement that the two institutions are
firmly resolved to unite in the fight against corruption and related vices that tend to negatively
affect good governance. The MoU will provide a framework within which joint sensitization
activities will be conducted among the general public across the country. These activities are
aimed at raising awareness levels and a sense of responsibility in the citizenry to take keen
interest in the affairs of public service delivery.
Further, the MoU will provide a robust whistle-blowing mechanism in the institutions which is
envisioned to encourage timely and swift receipt of information that forms the basis for
investigation of illicit drug activities, money laundering, abuse of public resources and related
vices. It is worth noting that good and successful investigations are heavily reliant on the
availability of reliable intelligence. Thus, protection of whistle-blowers cannot be overemphasized if members of the public who are potential witnesses to the vices being perpetuated
are to be assured of safety from any ridicule or victimization.
Finally, it is the resolved position that DEC and TI-Z will work tirelessly to ensure the MoU
signed today will be a practical document and not counted only as part of a collection of
documents. The two organizations look forward to working together in this mutually
beneficial partnership.
Zanji Valerie Sinkala, COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER, Transparency International Zambia
Mathias Kamanga, HEAD – PUBLIC RELATIONS, Drug Enforcement Commission
