Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
Airports Company of Zimbabwe (ACZ) board members on Wednesday signed the integrity pledge, reaffirming their commitment to combating corruption and promoting transparency and accountability.
The ceremony took place in Harare, overseen by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC).
Led by chairperson Advocate Tichaona Muhonde, ACZ board members pledged to prevent and fight corruption in the organisation.
Integrity pledges serve as social contracts affirming an individual’s commitment to act against corruption.
ACZ manages eight airports across Zimbabwe, providing essential access to the nation’s tourist destinations.
ZACC’s head of prevention and corporate governance committee, Commissioner Chido Madiwa, addressed the ACZ officials, emphasising the importance of reinforcing integrity, particularly given the growth of the airport industry.
“It is our collective responsibility to ensure stability and corruption-free development, operation, and maintenance of airports in Zimbabwe,” said Comm Madiwa.
She highlighted that integrity is foundational to effective public service and critical in managing airports.
The signing of the integrity pledge symbolises a strengthened partnership between ZACC and ACZ in the fight against corruption, aligning with the National Anti-Corruption Strategy (NACS).
Comm Madiwa expressed hope that ACZ’s proactive stance would inspire other organisations in the aviation sector to follow suit.
She described the pledge as a significant step towards fostering an integrity-driven approach in ACZ’s operations.
The ACZ’s responsibilities such as developing airport infrastructure and ensuring safety require individuals with high integrity, added Comm Madiwa.
She encouraged the ACZ to establish a dedicated Integrity Committee to promote ethical behaviour throughout the organisation.
“ACZ’s commitment to integrity will reflect not only within your organisation but also towards every citizen and passenger who relies on your professionalism,” she said.
Adv Muhonde spoke about the challenges posed by corruption, calling it a major obstacle to sustainable development.
“Corruption distorts public policy, undermines trust in leadership, and erodes the moral fabric of our societies.
“The imperative to combat corruption is a moral and strategic necessity,” he stated.
Adv Muhonde emphasised that integrity is essential for effective leadership and decision-making.
He confirmed that ACZ has made significant strides in governance, guided by ZACC and the Corporate Governance Unit (CGU).
In addition, ACZ has completed the procurement process for a whistleblower facility. This initiative aims to promote awareness of reporting unethical issues anonymously.
The signing of the integrity pledge marks a vital step in fostering a culture of transparency and accountability in Zimbabwe’s aviation sector, setting a benchmark for others to follow in the fight against corruption.
Online Reporter