Government Cracks Down on Corrupt Procurement Officers

In another move that shows Zambia is making progress in its war on corruption, Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa has issued a firm directive to all Controlling Officers to take disciplinary action against procurement officers found engaging in misconduct.

Speaking at the Zambia Institute of Purchasing and Supply (ZIPS) Procurement Committee Members Workshop in Lusaka yesterday, Mr Kangwa made it clear that officers who break procurement regulations must face the full force of the law.

“Procurement misconduct is a major breeding ground for corruption. We cannot afford to allow a few individuals to sabotage national progress through unethical practices. Those found guilty must be fired—not transferred,” Mr Kangwa asserted.

The Cabinet Secretary also urged workshop members to ensure efficiency and transparency in the procuring of goods and services.

Mr Kangwa’s directive is the latest in a series of anti-corruption efforts which show that Zambia is on the right track and that the government is committed to building a brighter, more prosperous future.

Earlier this month, Transparency International upgraded Zambia’s Corruption Perceptions Index score, and UN Special Rapporteur Irene Khan praised the government’s openness to international human rights engagement.