By Amos Sikaonga 
By Cecilia Chiluba
Western Province Permanent Secretary has launched the dissemination workshop for the 2024 Zambia Bribe Payers’ Index (ZBPI), marking a renewed commitment to transparency and anti-corruption efforts in the country.
The workshop follows the official launch of the 2024 ZBPI by Secretary to the Cabinet, Patrick K. Kangwa, held in Lusaka last month.
Developed in partnership with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and Transparency International Zambia (TIZ), the index has been a key tool in anti-corruption monitoring since 2012.
Despite an increase in the overall bribery index from 10.1% in 2022 to 15.3% in 2024, the report highlighted improvements in several sectors such as a 11.9% drop in bribery linked to Interpol/motor vehicle clearance (Zambia Police Service), and a 6% reduction in bribes during driving license renewals (RTSA).
It also highlights a 5.5% decline in bribery cases involving secondary school placements at Ministry of Education, and 14.5% decrease in bribes reported during fault reporting at ZESCO.
Speaking at the launch, Simomo Akapelwa, noted that the improvements show that Government’s efforts are bearing fruit in specific institutions, but that more must be done.
Mr. Akapelwa, who was represented by Western Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Richard Mulwanda, described the workshop as a vital platform to engage with the findings of the ZBPI and take actionable steps toward reducing bribery in public service.
He said the document offers insights into both citizens’ experiences and perceptions of corruption, providing valuable direction for institutional reforms.
“The ZBPI is not just a document, it’s a mirror of our governance and a call to action,” Mr. Akapelwa stated.
Mr. Akapelwa also welcomed Zambia’s improved score of 39 on the 2024 Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index, surpassing the national development benchmark of 36.
He urged ministries and departments to use the report to guide strategic reforms and enhance accountability.
Meanwhile, ACC Western Province Regional Manager, Gift Chibelenga, emphasized the need for a mindset change among citizens to effectively tackle corruption.
Mr. Chibelenge highlighted ACC’s ongoing commitment to collaborate with stakeholders, particularly in areas like the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), where transparency is essential.
According to a statement issued by Western Province Principal Public Relations Officer, Mwakoi Njekwa, the event brought together officials from ACC, TIZ, government departments, reinforcing the multi-stakeholder approach needed to curb corruption in the country.
Cecilia Chiluba