By Liberty Mutamba
CORRUPTION has been flagged as a threat to national building because it hinders development and growth of the nation.
The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has called all agencies to work hand-in-hand in the fight against corruption.
Matabeleland South Province has Beitbridge border, the biggest port of entry to the region. It is also an economic hub endowed with a number of minerals. These lure people and traffic, with the resultant effect that there is a lot of corruption at the port of entry, leaving Matabeleland South Province vulnerable.
In line with devolution agenda, Gwanda recently hosted the African Anti-Corruption Day, where agencies affirmed their commitment to fight and shun corruption in their daily operations.
Zimbabwe Republic Police acting Commanding Officer for Matabeleland South Province, Commissioner Stephen Kazingizi, said the police were working tirelessly to fight corruption in communities.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police stands as an unshakable bulwark against corruption. We not only reject this scourge in all its forms, but have institutionalised a policy of zero tolerance, reinforced by robust legal and administrative mechanisms to root out malfeasance wherever it may surface within our ranks.
The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) has also thrown its weight behind the fight corruption. Matabeleland South Province acting ZPCS Officer Commanding, Commissioner Cleopas Moyo, said they were working to create and foster a more just and corruption-resistant society.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe acting deputy prosecutor general, Ruth Makuva, affirmed that they were collaborating with other law enforcement agencies to fight corruption.
“NPAZ is unwavering in its resolve. We are continuously enhancing our capacity, embracing technological advancements, and fostering greater collaboration with law enforcement agencies and other justice delivery actors.
“We are committed to ensuring that no one is above the law, and that those who seek to enrich themselves at the expense of the public good are held accountable. Our efforts are geared towards strengthening the rule of law, which is the bedrock upon which human dignity thrives,” said Makuva.
In commemorating the African Anti-Corruption Day, ZACC affirmed its commitment to raise awareness and ensure that citizenry are not caught offside, stressed ZACC chairperson, Michael Reza.
“The impact of corruption on our economy and development is severe. It results in revenue losses, which cripple public services, deepens inequality due to diverted resources, and threatens national security as undeclared or undetected dangerous goods can enter into the country. ZACC will aggressively confront these issues.
“In line with the Second Republic’s Devolution agenda espoused in the National Development Strategy (NDS) 1, ZACC is working towards establishing a provincial office in Gwanda and another satellite office in Beitbridge. This is aimed at enhancing accessibility, allowing citizens to engage directly with ZACC, report corruption and make use of our services.” ZACC said the chairperson.
Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert guluvhe, who was represented by the Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Omphile Marupi, said both private and public agencies should unite in the quest to fight corruption. Government is working hard to ensure that its awareness campaigns promote and encourage zero tolerance to corruption.
“Zimbabwe remains steadfast in the rights of all citizens, including the accused in accordance with the law. However, the enjoyment of rights comes with responsibility. No one has the right to violate the economic and social rights of others under the guise of personal freedom. The law is not a shield for criminals.
“The Government is taking concrete steps to intensify the fight against corruption. Among these efforts is legislation of Whistle-blower and Witness protection. This legislation is critical in safeguarding those who expose corruption, ensuring that they are not victimised for their bravery,” said Nguluvhe.
The commemorations also encouraged the protection of whistle-blowers and victims of corruption. Zimbabwe is a signatory to the AUCPCC and a member of African Union Advisory Board Against Corruption (AUABC).
The African Anti-Corruption Day is observed annually regionally, on July 11 every year, since the passage of the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combatting Corruption (AUCPCC) to raise public awareness, reinforce the centrality of human dignity, and provides an opportunity for countries to recognise the importance of anti-corruption measures in promoting human dignity.
New Ziana
