04 Nov 2013

Government’s progress in fighting corruption has been reflected in improved annual ratings by Transparency International, as well as the fact that Directorate on Corruption Economic Crime (DCEC) registered a conviction rate of 75 pe rcent.

Presenting the State-of-the-Nation Address on November 4, President Lt Gen Seretse Khama Ian Khama said there was a growing need for further improvement. “To encourage the implementation of corruption prevention initiatives across Government, the DCEC is now part of the review team that assesses Ministries’ performance.

The Directorate has in this respect promoted the creation and functioning of Corruption Prevention Committees in each Ministry. Dedicated Anti-Corruption Units have also been established in seven Ministries, which are empowered to conduct preliminary investigations. The DCEC has further established additional sector-specific units to improve its investigations, while some officers have been seconded to the Directorate of Public Prosecution to build their capacity,” the President said.

In recognition for the superior international rankings President Khama said the DCEC now hosts the Commonwealth Africa Anti-Corruption Centre, which will facilitate regional collaboration in combating corruption, while providing training, research and enhanced interface with non-African Commonwealth members. The Centre will also house an online learning academy. He highlighted that in its quest to improve service delivery the Judiciary continued to reform its internal processes to accelerate case disposal.

To that end, General Khama said there has been an establishment of specialized courts for stock theft, maintenance, small claims and traffic offences. He said government was also committed to enhancing the capacity of traditional leadership structures which play a pivotal role in local communities.

“Government appreciates the role played by bogosi in the development of this country. In many areas Dikgosi have started implementing recommendations of the Social Values Committee, more especially through the promotion of cultural activities. For its part government will continue to convene Dipitso tsa Dikgosi on social values in various districts to promote nation building’ he explained." ENDS