IICFIP to help raise war against corruption in Zambia

Tue, 28 Mar 2017 10:55:17 +0000

 BY CHINTU MALAMBO

THE International Institute of Certified Forensic Investigation Professionals (IICFIP) says it will work with professionals in various fields in Government, private sector and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to ensure a holistic approach to fighting corruption in Zambia.

IICFIP country director Gibson Mwewa said that there was need to discard the concept that corruption only occurs in Government because the vice is also prevalent in the private sector which is the engine of Zambia’s economic growth

“There have been lope-sided voices in the public domain suggesting that corruption can only occur in Government when in actual fact the private sector is equally affected,” he said.

Mr Mwewa said that it was important Zambia to upscale the fight against corruption and financial crimes by applying more advanced techniques to beat the sophisticated tactics being used by perpetrators of corrupt vices.

In a statement Mr Mwewa said that the fight against corruption, fraud and generally financial crimes should be improved through the use of scientific and practical methods in detecting and preventing the vices in public as well as private sectors.

Mr Mwewa said that Zambia should therefore be alert to protect resources that were required for growth and development in various sectors.

He said that IICFIP will enhance skills and training in forensic investigations to curb corrupt vices among government and private sector professionals all over Zambia.

“This is the more reason why IICFIP wants to enhance skills and training in forensic investigation among Government and private sector professionals across the country,” he said.

Mr Mwewa said that it was vital to enhance public awareness through a practical approach with all stakeholders, who should move in tandem because a disjointed approach is usually weak and ineffective.

He said that members of the public are an integral part in bringing about awareness and change of mind-set so that they actively participate in combating financial crimes as opposed to leaving the fight to a few institutions.

IICFIP, which will launch the Zambian chapter on  March 30 2017, will at the same time host a conference with eminent and highly qualified professionals from different countries who will share their knowledge and experiences with the Zambian audience.