ZCSA/ACC collaborate to combat corruption through staff training

...Training Aims to Strengthen Integrity and Transparency Across ZCSA Operations

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia (12-11-2024) – The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) has partnered with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to conduct a five-day Integrity Committee Induction training aimed at fostering transparency and combating corruption. 

The training, being held at Protea Hotel in Lusaka, is designed to equip ZCSA staff from both the head office and provincial offices with the skills needed to prevent unethical practices and promote integrity within the agency.

ZCSA Executive Director, Mr. Gerald Chizinga, commended the ACC for its continued support in the fight against corruption, emphasizing that all institutions, including ZCSA, share the responsibility of preventing corrupt practices.

“Every organization, including ZCSA, has a role to play in combating corruption,” Mr. Chizinga stated. “In 2018, we established the Integrity Committee with the ACC’s assistance to institutionalize corruption prevention and enhance transparency.”

Mr. Chizinga outlined several key policies guiding ethical conduct within ZCSA, including the Gift Policy, Code of Ethics, and Whistleblower Policy. 

The agency also develops Annual Corruption Prevention Action Plans (ACPAP) to address unethical behavior and promote good governance.

He emphasized that ZCSA’s core mission is to protect public health and safety by enforcing compulsory standards. Any compromise in this area, he warned, could endanger the lives of citizens.

“Integrity is at the heart of our work. Any lapse could put public safety at risk,” Mr. Chizinga affirmed.

He encouraged staff to uphold the agency’s values of integrity, teamwork, innovation, hard work, confidentiality, and accountability, highlighting that public service reflects not only the institution but also the nation.

“Your conduct represents not just your image, but that of the institution and the country,” he added.

Mr. Chizinga urged participants to fully embrace the training and share the knowledge gained with colleagues. 

He stressed that integrity training is essential at every level and that participants should strive to apply what they learn to their everyday roles. 

This training also aims to equip staff with actionable tools to prevent corruption and instill ethical behavior across the agency.

The training will cover 17 courses, including the Anti-Corruption Act, conflict of interest, administrative law, and change management. 

Practical case studies will be incorporated into the sessions to give participants a deeper understanding of how corruption manifests in public institutions and how to effectively combat it.

Kelvin Siwale, ACC Assistant Director - Corruption Prevention who read the speech on behalf of ACC Acting Director General Mrs. Monica Chipanta Mwansa, Acting Director General of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), commended ZCSA for its unwavering commitment to anti-corruption efforts. 

He emphasized that the success of the Integrity Committee depends on support from both management and staff.

“ZCSA plays a critical role in safeguarding public health and safety. Corruption could allow unsafe products to enter the market, putting citizens at risk,” he explained.

He praised ZCSA for making integrity a core value and noted that the ACC has supported the creation of 235 Integrity Committees nationwide. 

However, he highlighted challenges such as insufficient funding and the lack of full-time secretariats, which need to be addressed for the committees to function effectively. 

Siwale added that the ACC is working on solutions to these challenges, including advocating for increased funding and resources to ensure the committees' success.

The workshop aims to equip participants with the tools needed to combat corruption, covering topics like the Anti-Corruption Act, conflicts of interest, and strategies for identifying and reporting unethical practices. 

Siwale concluded by urging participants to lead by example, stressing that integrity is demonstrated through actions, not just words.

“The ACC remains committed to supporting ZCSA’s efforts to promote integrity,” he concluded.

The training was attended by staff from the ZCSA Head Office, provincial offices, and border offices.