By Amos Sikaonga 
By Cecilia Chiluba
Government says over K1.2 billion worth of tainted properties and liquid assets have been forfeited to the state since the current administration took the reigns of power in 2021.
Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana said in a Facebook post monitored by Money News that this is one of the numerous strides made towards the fight against corruption.
Mr. Kawana stated that Government is fully committed to fighting corruption based on a strong principle of zero tolerance to the scourge in all its forms.
“Government stands by combating corruption and building a more just and equitable society for all.”
“Corruption severely hampers national development by diverting resources from essential services, undermining public trust, and hindering economic growth,” Mr. Kawana said.
He noted that the scourge erodes the rule of law, national security, and democracy, ultimately weakening state institutions and discouraging investment.
Mr. Kawana observed that for the first time in a decade, Zambia has improved its Corruption Perception Index score from 33/100 in 2022 to 37/100 in 2023, significantly improving its ranking by 8 points from the rank of 116/180 countries in 2022 to 98/180 countries in 2023.
“The Corruption Perception Index score has also improved by 2 points from 37/100 in 2023 to 39/100 in 2024,” he noted.
He said the National Policy on Anti-Corruption has been revised to respond to the current trends.
Mr. Kawana explained that the Policy provides holistic and inclusive national interventions on anti-corruption and accountability, which is necessary for the economic transformation agenda.
“The Fast Track Economic and Financial Crimes Court was established and is operational and has to date dealt with economic crimes to ensure corruption cases are expeditiously dealt with,” Mr. Kawana stated.
He added that Government has launched an Online Anonymous Whistleblower System (OAWS) in a landmark effort to enhance the fight against corruption and protect the confidentiality of whistle-blowers in the public sector.
“The new system will guarantee whistle-blowers a high level of data security, confidentiality, and real-time communication and feedback.
Cecilia Chiluba