The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services have formalized their partnership in the fight against corruption by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement aims to foster collaboration through sharing information, cooperating on various fronts, enhancing capacity, consulting on mutual interests, and conducting customer surveys, among other extensive working parameters.
The MoU outlines that, when appropriate, the two parties will share information on corruption and fraud. It also encourages adherence to the recommendations and risk assessments provided by the ACB to ensure the best performance in public service delivery.
Mr. Hillary Chilomba, Acting Director General of the ACB, commended the collaborative efforts of both institutions. He emphasized that the MoU does not compromise the mandates of either institution or interfere with ongoing investigations. Chilomba reiterated that the ultimate goal for both institutions is to serve Malawians effectively, in accordance with the legal frameworks that define their mandates.
Fletcher Nyirenda, the Commissioner responsible for Operations at the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services, expressed the department’s commitment to reviewing its processes and educating the public to reduce the motivation for bribery driven by ignorance. He highlighted the significant influence the Immigration Department has on the socioeconomic development of Malawi, stressing that integrity in their operations is crucial to achieving this goal.
Nyirenda also urged the officers at the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services to familiarize themselves with the MoU to ensure its effective implementation.