By Pemphero Mpho Musowa
The United States government says its investment in the fight against corruption in Malawi has resulted in recovery of $150,000 from illicit gains and the freezing of more than $3 million of property from suspected graft.
US Chargé d’Affaires Pamela Fessenden said while a lot of work has been done in Malawi’s corruption drive, much more needs to happen.
The US Diplomat stressed on the need for people to speak out and demand public accountability for government institutions and private enterprises.
She said: “USAID and partners from the United Kingdom have advised Malawian law enforcement in developing a coordinated anti-corruption strategy and establishing an Asset Forfeiture Unit.
“This has facilitated the seizure of $150,000 from illicit gains and the freezing of more than $3 million of property from suspected graft.”
She added: “The battle against corruption is not only fought by governments and donors. It starts with uplifting leaders who themselves are tackling corruption,” emphasizing “By leaders, I do not just mean political leaders. I mean people who are at the forefront of the fight against corruption.”
She said the US is impressed by all the work undertaken to fight corruption from speaking out against questionable practices to upholding standards of practice in public processes.
Fessenden expressed it remains committed to supporting stakeholder groups in creating more demand for anti-corruption efforts among the population.
Through exchange programs like the International Visitor Leadership Programme (IVLP), the US has trained criminal justice officials, journalists, and civil society leaders to uncover graft and push for integrity and transparency in public processes.
