By Mary Lisah Svosve
The Chairperson of the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), Mr. Michael Reza, has called on the country’s diplomats to actively engage in Zimbabwe’s anti-corruption mission.
Speaking at a recent ceremony where Ambassadors and diplomatic representatives signed integrity pledges, Mr Reza underscored the vital role these officials play in advancing Zimbabwe’s accountability agenda on the global stage.
He stressed the importance of Ambassadors in supporting anti-corruption efforts on an international scale.
“The role of Ambassadors and Heads of Missions in the fight against corruption cannot be overemphasized. As ambassadors, your responsibilities extend beyond upholding individual integrity. You are in strategic positions to provide essential support to our anti-corruption efforts by serving as liaisons on cross-border investigations and facilitating the sharing of information,” said Mr Reza
The Anti-graft boss highlighted the challenges Zimbabwe faces in recovering assets hidden in foreign accounts, describing the task as “an arduous process requiring international cooperation.”
He urged ambassadors to leverage their influence to advocate for transparency and actively assist in securing these resources.
“We need your help to recover proceeds of corruption stashed in foreign safe havens. Your commitment can make a substantial difference in retrieving these assets and bringing those responsible to account,” he noted.
Addressing the Ambassadors’ role as Zimbabwe’s representatives, Mr Reza emphasized the importance of integrity.
“Your role as the face of Zimbabwe on the global stage is critical. In your conduct, you reflect our national values and our unwavering dedication to transparency and accountability.
“Your presence abroad is not only to protect Zimbabwe’s interests but to represent us in a manner that builds trust and fosters cooperation with foreign governments and institutions.”
Mr Reza also explained the significance of the ambassadors’ public commitment by signing the integrity pledges.
“The signing of these integrity pledges by our ambassadors and international representatives is a powerful statement. It’s not just a formality; it is a demonstration of Zimbabwe’s dedication to upholding a code of ethics and combating corruption at every level.”
This call to action aligns with Zimbabwe’s broader development vision, which is spearheaded by President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Mr Reza enjoined the ambassador to lend their weight to the vision.
“President Mnangagwa’s vision for Zimbabwe as an upper-middle-income society by 2030 depends on our collective commitment to integrity. Your role, as diplomats, is crucial in championing this vision by embodying and promoting our values of transparency and accountability worldwide.”
Zimbabwe’s fight against corruption has been an ongoing and challenging battle. In recent years, the government has launched numerous initiatives aimed at curbing corruption and promoting accountability.
The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), established to investigate and prosecute cases of corruption, has led many high-profile investigations involving public officials and private sector actors.
These efforts are part of Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which identifies the eradication of corruption as a key pillar for achieving sustainable growth.
Despite these measures, Zimbabwe faces significant obstacles, particularly with assets hidden abroad and the need for international collaboration.
Through continued diplomatic engagement and support from its international representatives, Zimbabwe aims to strengthen these efforts and build a foundation for transparency and integrity in its institutions.
