Friday, February 7, 2025

DCEC tackles bad attitude at the government enclave

Directorate on Corruption and Economic Crime (DCEC) has been tasked to root out poor service and work ethics at the government enclave.

The DCEC last week launched an Ethics and Integrity booklet in Francistown as part of their campaign.

DCEC Senior Assistant Director, Shadrack Kgomo told an audience during the launch that the booklet comes at a critical time when government is grappling with issues of bad behavior and negative attitude in the work place. The booklet is aimed at educating officers on how to create an environment that is conducive to ethical culture. It also outlines how to develop and implement action plans to promote integrity.

“We as the DCEC are committed to working with all stakeholders in fighting corruption in order to deliver on its mandate and vision of combating corruption through investigation, prevention and public education,” said Kgomo.  

When giving her expert insight on the issue, PPADB Executive Chairperson, Bridget John pointed out that the demand for ethical conduct and integrity is increasingly being placed not only on government but on the business sector, non-governmental institutions, charitable organizations, trusts, political leadership and the international community in general.

She commended the DCEC for the initiative, saying it will not only promote good governance but also prevent corruption through intense awareness building, buy-in, and adherence to good business practices in the public and private sector.

 “The ease of doing business in Botswana should be underpinned by ethics and integrity which will reduce the demand for excessive checks to counter impropriety. Ethical conduct and botho put people’s interest at the centre of service delivery,” said John.

John challenged those in power to strive for decision making that will benefit and not hurt society. She called out to the business community, different institutions, the media and leadership in general who make daily decision to always be guided by ethics and integrity. “The DCEC booklet guides us to avoid engaging in business without ethics hence I implore you to share the booklet widely and utilize it optimally,” she said.

The newly appointed DCEC Deputy Director General, Erica Ndlovu, said DCEC believes that corruption can be won through collaborative partnerships with all sectors.

“To realize the value of this booklet, organizations and individuals need to implement some strategies as outlined. The DCEC remains available to assist if there are any challenges experienced in its implementation and understanding,” she said.

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