Online Reporter
Walter Nyamukondiwa
Mashonaland West Bureau Chief
GOVERNMENT’S initiative to enhance corporate governance in public entities has resulted in a 13 percent increase in compliance and adherence to operational standards, according to a recent survey.
This improvement is reflected in better financial performance and is crucial for achieving national development goals outlined in the National Development Strategy (NDS1).
A survey conducted in 2020 indicated compliance levels at 60 percent, which rose to 73 percent in 2024.
The increase was not only a sign of progress but also a foundational aspect that supported the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) in its efforts to combat corruption.
At an induction and training of newly appointed ZACC commissioners in Kadoma, Mr Allen Choruma, permanent secretary for the Corporate Governance Unit (CGU) in the Office of the President and Cabinet, emphasised the importance of good corporate governance for national development.
“What we are trying to do is strengthen the corporate governance of our entities, as there is a correlation between good corporate governance and national development outcomes,” said Mr Choruma.
He highlighted that enhancing governance across all public entities would lead to greater accountability, transparency and improved use of public resources, aligning with NDS1 and the broader vision for 2030.
The introduction of the Public Entities and Corporate Governance Act in June 2018 has significantly improved governance in public entities, indicating a direct relationship between compliance and financial performance.
This development positively impacts service delivery and the overall welfare of citizens.
ZACC chairperson Mr Michael Reza stressed the need for the new commissioners to fully understand their roles in the fight against corruption.
He urged them to seek guidance from the appointing authority to effectively fulfil ZACC’s mandate.
The commissioners expressed their commitment to tackling corruption head-on.
Commissioner Kindness Paradza warned those involved in corrupt practices that their time is running out, as the new commission will adopt innovative strategies to address the issue. Commissioner Zalerah Makari noted the importance of raising awareness about the detrimental effects of corruption on national development.
Commissioner Rumbidzayi Zvimba acknowledged that while corruption was a global issue, there is a need for home-grown solutions to eradicate it.
