Lusaka, July 31, 2007 - The United States Agency for
International Development (USAID), through its Anti-Corruption Initiative (ACI) project
managed by Pact Zambia, handed over new printing equipment to the Office of the Auditor
General. The equipment will assist the Office of the Auditor General to print its reports
to the Executive, Parliament and all stakeholders in a timely manner.
The timely availability of the Auditor General's reports
and other documents will enable Parliament, Government departments and ministries, and
civil society to scrutinize the work of Government and offer it opportunities to make
changes and address concerns where necessary.
USAID Zambia Mission Director, Melissa Williams, handed
over the equipment to the Auditor General, Anna Chifungula. "It is clear from the recent
open discussions generated by the Auditor-General's reports, both in Parliament and among
members of the public through the media, that Zambians want to know how public funds are
used," said Ms. Williams.
She added that the United States Government and the
American people are pleased to be part of the process that helps to make the Office of the
Auditor General respond quickly and timely to demands by the Zambian Government,
civil society and members of the public.
Receiving the equipment, Ms. Chifungula said although
her office has produced the Auditor General's Report by December 31 during the past four
years as required by law, the donation provides more impetus for her staff to work even
harder. "Your donation shows that you recognize the vital role my office is playing in
the promotion of accountability and transparency," she said.
Working through Pact Zambia, USAID funding has been
instrumental in engaging civil society organizations as well as watchdog institutions,
such as the National Assembly oversight committees and the Auditor General's office, in
discussions and collaboration on fostering transparency and good governance.
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| Auditor-General Anna Chifungula thanks USAID/Zambia Mission Director Mellissa Williams after receiving the new printing equipment. Photo: USAID/Zambia, Gerald Mwale. |
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