ACC Calls for Integrity and Compliance in Healthcare Sector to Fight Corruption
The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has urged stakeholders in Zambia’s healthcare sector to prioritize integrity and compliance to combat corruption and promote accountability. Speaking at the Private Sector Symposium on Anti-Corruption held in Lusaka on Thursday, ACC Acting Director General Monica Mwansa underscored the importance of adopting robust compliance systems to foster transparency in the sector.
Ms. Mwansa highlighted that implementing a Compliance Management System (CMS) is a challenging but necessary process. “The journey toward an effective CMS demands substantial investment in time, resources, and expertise. It also requires unwavering commitment from leadership to drive this initiative and ensure its success,” she said.
To address these challenges, she assured stakeholders of ACC’s support, stating, “The ACC remains committed to providing the guidance and resources necessary for organizations, regardless of size, to implement compliance systems effectively.” Ms. Mwansa emphasized that a well-implemented CMS is crucial for Zambia’s vision of a corruption-free society, particularly in critical sectors like healthcare.
Adding to the discourse, Transparency International Zambia (TIZ) stressed the need for collaboration among various players to tackle corruption effectively. Delivering remarks on behalf of TIZ Executive Director Maurice Nyambe, Public Finance Management Coordinator Tommy Singongi called for a united approach that includes the government, public institutions, businesses, and civil society.
“To create a level playing field and maintain the highest standards of ethics, TIZ works closely with companies and business associations,” said Mr. Singongi. He reaffirmed TIZ’s commitment to advocating for stronger anti-corruption measures, particularly within Zambia’s private sector.
The healthcare sector, often described as the backbone of national development, is particularly vulnerable to corruption due to its high financial stakes and critical role in public welfare. Both the ACC and TIZ have emphasized that strengthening integrity in this sector is essential to ensure equitable access to quality services for all Zambians.
The symposium, which brought together key stakeholders from various sectors, was a call to action for organizations to implement systems that promote transparency and accountability. Stakeholders agreed that corruption not only erodes public trust but also hinders progress toward Zambia’s development goals.
As Zambia continues to strengthen its fight against corruption, both the ACC and TIZ have reiterated the need for a culture of compliance and ethical leadership across all sectors. By adopting comprehensive measures to combat corruption, Zambia can pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future.
For organizations in the private sector, the message is clear: integrity and compliance are not just legal obligations—they are the foundation of sustainable growth and societal trust.
BY EDITH MWIINGA
KUMWESU NOV 28, 2024