Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve
THE Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has convened the fourth Public-Private Sector Dialogue on Anti-Money Laundering and Financial Crimes conference here in Victoria Falls as part of efforts to strengthen the nation’s defences against illicit finance.
This year marks the first time the premier conference is being held outside Harare.
The two-day conference, which commenced on Friday is running under the theme: “Consolidating Progress and Driving Action Towards a High level of AML/CFT Effectiveness.”
The high-profile event has drawn hundreds of local and international delegates, including key figures from Government, law enforcement, regulatory bodies, banking, fintech, and regional financial intelligence units.
In his opening remarks, the FIU Director General, Mr Oliver Chiperesa, underscored the significance of the event and its growing stature.
“It is my great honor and privilege to warmly welcome you all to Zimbabwe’s fourth edition of the public-private sector dialogue taking place here in the magnificent resort town of Victoria Falls, the first time that we are holding it outside Harare. The profile and station of the event has grown from year to year,” Mr Chiperesa said.
He highlighted the regional solidarity present at the conference.
“Your presence here is a strong testament to our shared commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the region’s financial systems and acknowledgement of the reality that financial crimes know no borders,” he said.
The conference’s first day will feature a keynote address by the Acting Governor of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, Dr. Jesimen Chipika, and critical presentations on Zimbabwe’s preparedness for the upcoming 2026 mutual evaluation.
Mr I Momoniat from South Africa’s Ministry of Finance is also expected to share vital lessons from his country’s experience in strengthening its anti money laundering regime.
This will culminate in a panel discussion on applying robust preventive measures, moderated by ESAAMLG expert Ms Vanevola Otieno.
Day two of the dialogue is set to continue with a focus on cooperation and enforcement.
A panel discussion will delve into the effective use of financial intelligence, money laundering investigations, and the tracing of proceeds of crime.
The panel will feature a powerful coalition of agencies, including the FIU, Zimbabwe Republic Police, National Prosecuting Authority, and the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission.
Emphasising the timeliness of the dialogue, Mr Chiperesa said the theme is particularly relevant at a time when the country is about to be assessed in a few months time under the Eastern and Southern Africa Anti-Money Laundering Group (ESAAMLG) Round of Mutual Evaluations.
He urged delegates to use the forum to build stronger partnerships.
“As we engage over the next two days, I encourage open dialogue, practical collaboration and the spirit of unit in purpose,” he said.
Bongani Ndlovu