Chizuma Urges CSOs to Ensure Accountability in Cyclone Freddy Relief Efforts

Malawi-The Director General of the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Martha Chizuma, has called on civil society organizations (CSOs) to be accountable for every penny they receive in their efforts to assist victims of Cyclone Freddy, writes Tionge Hara.

Speaking during a public lecture in Mzuzu on Monday, Chizuma emphasized the crucial role played by CSOs in the fight against corruption and urged them to ensure transparency in the utilization of funds meant for cyclone victims.

"We don't want a repeat of what happened during the COVID-19 pandemic, where some unscrupulous individuals took advantage of the situation to steal public funds," Chizuma said.

Given that CSOs are primarily involved in promoting transparency and accountability, the ACB would greatly appreciate their collaboration in monitoring the use of funds, she added.

Chizuma expressed concern about the possibility of people with no integrity taking advantage of the current situation to steal relief funds meant for the affected population.

"It is disheartening that in these difficult times, some individuals are willing to exploit vulnerable people for personal gain. We will not tolerate this, and the law will take its course," she warned.

Cyclone Freddy has devastated several districts in the southern region of the country, leaving many families homeless and in dire need of assistance.