Overview
The National Policy on Anti-Corruption (2023) provides Zambia with a renewed framework to prevent, detect, and combat corruption across the public and private sectors. It builds on the 2009 National Anti-Corruption Policy, responding to persistent corruption challenges, new governance demands, and Zambia’s obligations under regional and international conventions such as UNCAC, AUCPCC, and the SADC Protocol against Corruption.
The policy is grounded in the principle of Zero Tolerance to Corruption, recognising its negative impact on economic growth, democracy, rule of law, investor confidence, and the wellbeing of citizens, particularly the poor and vulnerable.
Vision
A nation that is zero tolerant to corruption.
Rationale
Despite earlier efforts, corruption remains high in Zambia, as reflected in the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) and Zambia Bribe Payers’ Index (ZBPI). Challenges include weak institutional coordination, limited enforcement, loopholes in procurement, abuse of natural resources, electoral corruption, and lack of effective whistle-blower protections. The policy was therefore revised to:
- Address gaps in the 2009 framework.
- Strengthen legal and institutional systems.
- Promote transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership.
- Foster citizen participation and behavioural change.
Guiding Principles
The policy is anchored on:
- Constitutionalism & Rule of Law – anti-corruption within human rights and equality safeguards.
- Political Will & Leadership – prioritising service over self-interest.
- Transparency & Accountability – open and accountable institutions.
- Morality & Ethics – restoring integrity in public and private life.
- Partnerships & Inclusivity – involving state, private sector, civil society, media, and citizens.
- Independence & Impartiality – ensuring enforcement without interference.
- Ownership – corruption prevention as the responsibility of every Zambian.
Policy Objectives
General Objectives
- Strengthen corruption prevention in public and private bodies.
- Enhance transparency and accountability in public service delivery.
- Build institutional capacity of the ACC, NPA, Judiciary, and other LEAs.
- Promote mindset and behavioural change against corruption.
- Strengthen legal and institutional frameworks.
- Improve coordination, partnerships, monitoring, and research.
Specific Measures
- Prevention & Ethics: Integrity committees, service charters, lifestyle audits, and ethical leadership promotion.
- Public Service: Expansion of e-Government, transparent procurement, merit-based recruitment, and natural resource accountability.
- Institutions: Increase staffing, training, technology adoption, and resourcing of ACC, NPA, FIC, Judiciary, and oversight bodies.
- Public Engagement: Civic education, school curricula, anti-corruption clubs, youth and women empowerment initiatives.
- Law Reforms: Amend Constitution, Anti-Corruption Act, and Whistle-blower Act; enact laws on asset declaration, access to information, and political party financing.
Implementation Framework
Institutional Arrangements
The fight against corruption is multi-sectoral, involving:
- Cabinet Office – oversight and coordination.
- Ministry of Justice – policy leadership, legislation, and reporting.
- Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) – lead agency for prevention, detection, education, and enforcement.
- Law Enforcement Agencies (DEC, Zambia Police, Immigration) – detection, investigation, and prosecution support.
- Judiciary & NPA – timely adjudication and prosecution.
- Oversight Institutions – Auditor General, Public Protector, ECZ, ZPPA.
- Civil Society, Media & Private Sector – advocacy, reporting, and integrity promotion.
Legal Backing
Guided by the Constitution (2016 Amendment) and Anti-Corruption Act (2012), complemented by laws such as:
- Public Finance Management Act (2018)
- Public Procurement Act (2020)
- Forfeiture of Proceeds of Crime Act (2010)
- Whistle-blower Protection Act (2010)
- Money Laundering Act (2010)
Financing
Funded through the national budget, forfeited assets fund, and cooperating partners. A Resource Mobilisation Strategy will ensure sustainability.
Monitoring & Evaluation
Led jointly by the Ministry of Justice and ACC, with:
- Bi-annual and annual reports.
- Mid-term and end-term reviews.
- Regular corruption surveys.
- Research-based reforms.
Expected Outcomes
By implementing this policy, Zambia aims to achieve:
- Reduced corruption in service delivery, procurement, and natural resources.
- Stronger and more independent anti-corruption institutions.
- Improved public trust, rule of law, and investor confidence.
- Increased citizen participation in accountability processes.
- Effective recovery of stolen assets and reduced impunity.
- A corruption-free society aligned with Vision 2030 and the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP).
