Blog

JOINT CSO STATEMENT ON CONSTITUTIONAL (AMENDMENT) BILL 2025

29th May 2025 For Immediate Release We, the undersigned Civil Society Organisations, having carefully examined the content and implications of the proposed constitutional reforms, wish to reiterate and express our concerns regarding both the process and substance of the proposed amendments. While we firmly acknowledge the necessity of constitutional reform to consolidate our democracy, we…

Continue Reading JOINT CSO STATEMENT ON CONSTITUTIONAL (AMENDMENT) BILL 2025

HOW SHOULD A CONSTITUTIONAL CONSULTATION PROCESS LOOK LIKE?

The Zambian Government has committed to a 30-day window for public consultations on Bill 7, yet no clear framework has been established to guide how these consultations will take place. This lack of structure raises serious concerns about transparency, inclusion, and meaningful citizen participation in the constitutional reform process. But what are the elements of…

Continue Reading HOW SHOULD A CONSTITUTIONAL CONSULTATION PROCESS LOOK LIKE?

PRESS STATEMENT ON PROPOSED PUBLIC CONSULTATION FOR THE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT PROCESS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 20 MAY 2025 Lusaka, Zambia We at Chapter One Foundation and the Alliance for Community Action are deeply concerned by the absence of clear, accessible, and timely information on how public consultation will be conducted ahead of the release of the text of the constitutional amendment bill — which we expect to…

Continue Reading PRESS STATEMENT ON PROPOSED PUBLIC CONSULTATION FOR THE CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT PROCESS

PRESS STATEMENT- CALL FOR URGENT ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES FOLLOWING THE U.S HEALTH AID CUTS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 09 MAY 2025 Lusaka, Zambia The Alliance for Community Action (ACA) expresses deep concern over the United States’ decision to withdraw $50 million in annual health funding due to the persistent theft of donated medicines in Zambia. This development underscores the urgent need for robust accountability mechanisms within Zambia’s health sector to…

Continue Reading PRESS STATEMENT- CALL FOR URGENT ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES FOLLOWING THE U.S HEALTH AID CUTS

CIVIL SOCIETY PRESS STATEMENT ON PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT ROADMAP AND PROPOSED AREAS OF REFORM – 4th APRIL 2025

The undersigned Civil Society Organisations would like to share our perspective on the roadmap and Constitutional Reforms that have been proposed by the Government. We join the Zambians and stakeholders that have expressed deep concern and opposition to the proposed constitutional reforms currently under consideration by the government. The proposed constitutional reforms, as they stand,…

Continue Reading CIVIL SOCIETY PRESS STATEMENT ON PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT ROADMAP AND PROPOSED AREAS OF REFORM – 4th APRIL 2025

Opportunity: Invitation for Bids for the Supply of a Brand New Offroad Vehicle

The Alliance for Community Action (ACA) is a non-governmental organization dedicated to fostering a routine and systematic demand for public resource accountability in Zambia, with the specific objective of strengthening public participation in governance. In line with its financial and procurement policies, the ACA invites bids from suitably qualified suppliers for the supply of a…

Continue Reading Opportunity: Invitation for Bids for the Supply of a Brand New Offroad Vehicle

Call for Applications: Consultancy to Conduct a Baseline Study

TERMS OF REFERENCE CONSULTANCY TO CONDUCT A BASELINE STUDY TO ASSESS CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATION’S CAPACITY, CIVIC PARTICIPATION LEVELS, AND VOTER AWARENESS IN FOUR (4) DISTRICTS OF EASTERN AND MUCHINGA PROVINCES. The Alliance for Community Action (ACA) is a Non-Governmental Organization established in 2013, dedicated to ensuring that all citizens of Zambia enjoy the full and…

Continue Reading Call for Applications: Consultancy to Conduct a Baseline Study

Speak Up Youth Factshare: Responding to Drought: Kalomo Town Council’s Strategic Utilization of Constituency Development Funds

By Pride Maila, Citizen Journalists In response to the severe drought declared a disaster by President Hakainde Hichilema on January 10, 2024, local authorities across Zambia have been mandated to realign budgets and leverage Constituency Development Funds (CDF) to mitigate its impacts. The Kalomo Town Council, which oversees Dundumwezi and Kalomo Central constituencies, has taken…

Continue Reading Speak Up Youth Factshare: Responding to Drought: Kalomo Town Council’s Strategic Utilization of Constituency Development Funds

Speak Up Youth Fact-share: Relief Food Distribution in Mwaata Ward, Kalomo Central Constituency

By Erastone Gwangwazu, Citizen Journalist IntroductionMwaata Ward, the largest ward by population in Kalomo Central Constituency, comprises four zones. A recent survey revealed that most residents in the ward cannot afford three meals a day due to the ongoing hunger crisis caused by the drought during the 2023/2024 agricultural season. Relief Food Distribution Overview In…

Continue Reading Speak Up Youth Fact-share: Relief Food Distribution in Mwaata Ward, Kalomo Central Constituency

Speak Up Youth Fact-share: Overview of the Financial Intelligence Centre’s 2023 Report-Key Findings and Implications

By Pride Maila, Citizen Journalist The Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) has published its 2023 report, offering a comprehensive analysis of financial crimes and suspicious transactions in Zambia. This overview highlights the report’s key findings, their implications for the fight against corruption, and expectations from law enforcement and government institutions. Key Findings of the 2023 FIC…

Continue Reading Speak Up Youth Fact-share: Overview of the Financial Intelligence Centre’s 2023 Report-Key Findings and Implications

Celebrating the African Decentralization and Local Development Day

The celebration of African Decentralization and Local Development Day is a significant reminder of the importance of public and citizen participation in governance. Through the Deepening Democracy Facility Project aimed at enhancing social accountability for the Constituency Development Fund in Mazabuka and Milanzi Constituencies, the ACA has been training citizens in local communities, equipping them…

Continue Reading Celebrating the African Decentralization and Local Development Day

The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing: The Financial and Political Impact of By-Elections in Zambia

By Maila Pride, Citizen Journalist By-elections in Zambia, as in many other democracies, are essential mechanisms for maintaining legislative legitimacy and functionality. However, they carry significant financial costs and political consequences. The recent declaration by the Second Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Moyo, to vacate nine Patriotic Front (PF) parliamentary seats—though later stayed…

Continue Reading The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing: The Financial and Political Impact of By-Elections in Zambia

New Access to Information Act Now in Effect in Zambia

In a significant move towards transparency and accountability, the Access to Information Act officially came into effect in Zambia on June 25. The commencement order was signed by Information and Media Minister Cornelius Mweetwa. The Access to Information Act, assented to by President Hakainde Hichilema in December, last year, gives citizens, the media, and civil…

Continue Reading New Access to Information Act Now in Effect in Zambia

The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing: Zambia’s Debt Restructuring Process

By Maila Pride, Citizen Journalist According to Reuters News Agency, debt restructuring involves negotiating with creditors to reduce interest rates, extend repayment terms, or decrease loan balances. The aim is to make debt more manageable by lowering monthly payments, reducing interest rates, or cutting the total amount owed. In March 2024, the Government of the…

Continue Reading The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing: Zambia’s Debt Restructuring Process

The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing: The Keeping Girls in School (KGS) initiative

By Erastone Gwangwazu, Citizen Journalist BackgroundThe Keeping Girls in School (KGS) initiative, under the Girls’ Education and Women’s Empowerment and Livelihood (GEWEL) project, is an initiative funded by the World Bank aimed at supporting vulnerable girls in Zambia. This project targets girls from socio-economically disadvantaged families, ensuring they stay in school and receive support from…

Continue Reading The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing: The Keeping Girls in School (KGS) initiative

The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing: Children’s Code Act Fact Share

By Maila Pride, Citizen Journalist The Children’s Code Act, No. 12 of 2022, is a landmark piece of legislation enacted by the Zambian Parliament to consolidate various laws addressing the welfare of children. The Act aims to ensure the protection, respect, and fulfillment of children’s rights. According to the National Prosecution Authority (NPA), its full…

Continue Reading The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing: Children’s Code Act Fact Share

The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing:Understanding the Public Audit Act, 2016

By Jessy Phiri, Citizen Journalist. The Public Audit Act, 2016 aims to enhance the independence and autonomy of the National Audit Office, strengthening its functions. It establishes a framework to promote efficiency, accountability, effectiveness, and transparency in public administration through oversight and audit of public funds and performance. The Act aligns with United Nations Resolution…

Continue Reading The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing:Understanding the Public Audit Act, 2016

The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing: Is Financial Education an Effective Tool for National Development?

By Isaac Likwashi, Citizen Journalist. Following the enactment of the National Strategy of Financial Education for Zambia, on 20th July 2023 FinGen Money Geneus Group published their MoU with the National Assembly to all members of parliament. The document stated FinGen Money Geneus Group was selected as one of the key stake holders in implementing…

Continue Reading The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing: Is Financial Education an Effective Tool for National Development?

JOINT CSO PRESS RELEASE– POLICE UNCONSTITUTIONAL PREVENTION OF THE RIGHT TO GATHER

Lusaka, 3rd June 2024 It is with a sense of increasing alarm that we, the undersigned civil society organisations (CSOs), note the incessant incidents of police prevention of opposition party rallies and gatherings of any actors considered critical of government. Specifically, the organisations issuing this statement collectively condemn the use of the Police to prevent…

Continue Reading JOINT CSO PRESS RELEASE– POLICE UNCONSTITUTIONAL PREVENTION OF THE RIGHT TO GATHER

ACA and its Partner CSOs Call for Immediate Consultations on Constitutional Reforms

Press Statement For Immediate Release Lusaka, May 31, 2024 We, the undersigned concerned civil society organizations, urge the United Party for NationalDevelopment (UPND) government to fulfil its promises on constitutional reforms, as outlined intheir 2021 party manifesto. The UPND pledged to prioritize governance reforms, particularly themuch-needed constitutional changes that Zambians have long awaited. Since assuming…

Continue Reading ACA and its Partner CSOs Call for Immediate Consultations on Constitutional Reforms

Internship Alert: The ACA is seeking Interns

Internship Alert: Programme Interns (3 positions) and Finance and Administration Intern (1 position) – Lusaka, Zambia The Alliance for Community Action (ACA), an NGO focused on enhancing public resource accountability in Zambia, is seeking interns for the following positions: Programme Interns: 3 positions. Finance and Administration Intern: 1 position. Role Requirements: We are looking for…

Continue Reading Internship Alert: The ACA is seeking Interns

The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing: The Little-Known Legal Provisions on Anti-Corruption in Zambia

By Patricia Kachenjela, Citizen Journalist. Legal Framework: Zambia’s Anti-corruption Act No. 3 of 2012 defines corruption broadly, encompassing solicitation, acceptance, giving, promising, or offering gratification as bribery or inducement. The Anti-corruption Commission, established in 1890 under the Corrupt Practices Act No.14, is mandated to lead the fight against corruption. Mission: The Anti-corruption Commission aims to…

Continue Reading The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing: The Little-Known Legal Provisions on Anti-Corruption in Zambia

The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing; Was Matero Member of Parliament Miles Sampa Right in Denying His Brother Access to CDF?

By Mubita Kabika, Citizen Journalist. Was Matero Member of Parliament Miles Sampa right in denying his brother participation and possible access to the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) contracts? Background Matero Member of Parliament Miles Sampa reported to the public that he had stopped his brother ‘Joze’ from accessing CDF contracts using the declaration of interest…

Continue Reading The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing; Was Matero Member of Parliament Miles Sampa Right in Denying His Brother Access to CDF?

The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing; Who Can, Who Cannot Complain, and How to Lodge a Complaint to the Public Protector?

By Patrick Makaliki, Citizen Journalist Following the enactment of the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Act No. 2 of 2016, the Office of the Public Protector was established to replace the Office of the Investigator General. This is by virtue of Article 243 of the amended Constitution. The Public Protector is the OMBUDSMAN INSTITUTION of Zambia…

Continue Reading The Speak Up Youth Fact Sharing; Who Can, Who Cannot Complain, and How to Lodge a Complaint to the Public Protector?

World Press Freedom Day: Championing Accountability Through Media

Misheck Phiri, a radio journalist at Mphangwe Community Radio in Katete, Eastern Province World Press Freedom Day, observed on May 3, is a moment to reflect on the indispensable role that free and independent media plays in our society. This year’s theme, “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis,”…

Continue Reading World Press Freedom Day: Championing Accountability Through Media

Social Auditing, A Scope on CDF Projects Milanzi Constituency

Ealier, our team in Milanzi undertakook a significant social audit at the Kawaza Rural Health Centre’s newly constructed maternity wing, funded through the Constituency Development Fund. This audit is pivotal in bolstering community confidence in the utilization of public funds. By empirically verifying the alignment between documentary plans and on-the-ground reality, we ensure transparency and…

Continue Reading Social Auditing, A Scope on CDF Projects Milanzi Constituency

Ehancing Social Accountability for CDF in Katete and Mazabuka Districts

The ACA is in Katete and Mazabuka Constituencies training and preparing the local communities to implement social accessibility interventions, focusing on social audits. As part of the ongoing implementation of the Deepening Democracy Project, we also appeared on Mphangwe Community Radio in Katete this past weekend to share more insight about the project and the…

Continue Reading Ehancing Social Accountability for CDF in Katete and Mazabuka Districts

Registration of Suppliers of Goods and Services for the Period 2024 to 2025

The Alliance for Community Action (ACA) is a non-governmental organisation whose main objective is to grow the routine and systematic demand for public resource accountability in Zambia, with the specific objective of instituting that demand in the public.In line with the provisions of the ACA financial and procurement policies, the ACA hereby invites applications from organisations and individuals to register as…

Continue Reading Registration of Suppliers of Goods and Services for the Period 2024 to 2025

Call for Applications: Consultancy to Conduct a Baseline Study on Investment Strategies Employed by OverseasPublic and Private Entities in Zambia.

INTRODUCTIONThe Alliance for Community Action (ACA) is a non-governmental organisation set up in 2013 and works towards the articulated vision of “a Zambia in which all her citizens enjoy the full and equitable benefit of all her resources”. The ACA works to grow the routine and systematic demand for public resource accountability in Zambia, with…

Continue Reading Call for Applications: Consultancy to Conduct a Baseline Study on Investment Strategies Employed by OverseasPublic and Private Entities in Zambia.

Call for Applications – Professional Consultant for Translation of 20 Social Accountability Productions

Introduction The Alliance for Community Action (ACA) was set up in 2013 and works towards the articulated vision of “a Zambia in which all her citizens enjoy the full and equitable benefit of all her resources”. The Alliance for Community Action (ACA) works to grow the routine and systematic demand for public resource accountability in…

Continue Reading Call for Applications – Professional Consultant for Translation of 20 Social Accountability Productions

The ACA and 2,734 Citizens Petition the National Assembly for The Enactment of The Access to Information (ATI) Bill into an Act of Parliament.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEThursday 28th September 2023 The ACA and 2,734 Citizens Petition the National Assembly for The Enactment of The Access to Information (ATI) Bill into an Act of Parliament. On September 27th, 2023, the Alliance for Community Action (ACA), with support from Panos Institute Southern Africa, Common Cause Zambia and the ATI Coalition, presented…

Continue Reading The ACA and 2,734 Citizens Petition the National Assembly for The Enactment of The Access to Information (ATI) Bill into an Act of Parliament.

ACA Hosts Speak Up Youth Citizen Journalism Graduation Ceremony

Last Friday 8th of September the Alliance for Community Action (ACA) hosted the graduation of 32 citizen journalists under the Speak Up Youth project. The ceremony took place Lusaka, Zambia. The ceremony attended by partners from the German Development Cooperation (GIZ) and the German embassy in Zambia, Byta FM, Sun FM, Breeze FM and Voice…

Continue Reading ACA Hosts Speak Up Youth Citizen Journalism Graduation Ceremony

ACA Calls for Thorough Investigation and Government Action into ‘Gold-Not Gold’ Case

Press Statement For Immediate ReleaseWednesday, 16 August 2023 The Alliance for Community Action wishes to emphasize the urgency of addressing the ongoing ‘Gold-Not Gold’ case that has gripped our nation. In the face of this evolving situation, it is imperative, that the authorities keep the public informed, to the full extent possible, on the progress…

Continue Reading ACA Calls for Thorough Investigation and Government Action into ‘Gold-Not Gold’ Case

The Choma Citizen Journalism Training

The Alliance for Community Action was in Choma, Southern Province, training young people in Citizen Journalism under the Speak Up Youth Project. ACA Programmes Manager, Jimmy Maliseni facilitating the training. The trained Citizen Journalists will be reporting on community-based service delivery stories as one of the ways of fostering social accountability in the district. Trained…

Continue Reading The Choma Citizen Journalism Training

Access To Information Community Citizen Insaka in Kabwe

ACA Project Assistant, Florence Mwale during a training session in Nakoli, Kabwe Central Constituency The ACA, under the USAID Open Spaces Zambia Project, is implementing a project that seeks to connect access to information, and freedom of expression with people’s daily pressing concerns and ensure that people begin to understand that access to information is…

Continue Reading Access To Information Community Citizen Insaka in Kabwe

TI-Z and ACA Sign MoU – Info Pack

The Alliance for Community Action and Transparency International Zambia have today 4th May 2023, signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly offer support to victims of corruption in corruption-related case uptake through the TI-Z Advocacy and Legal Advice for Citizens – ALAC as well as undertaking joint social media advocacy on whistleblowing and whistleblower protection.…

Continue Reading TI-Z and ACA Sign MoU – Info Pack

Office of The Public Protector Responds to Complaint Raised on 42For42 Case

We are pleased to inform you that we have received a response from the Office of The Public Protector following the complaint raised regarding the inconclusive investigations into the purchase of 42 Fire Trucks at $42 million by the Ministry of Local Government in 2017. On the 9th of March 2023, the ACA wrote a…

Continue Reading Office of The Public Protector Responds to Complaint Raised on 42For42 Case

Invitation for Bids to Create a Site Plan

The Alliance for Community Action (ACA) is a non-governmental organisation whose main objective is to grow the routine and systematic demand for public resource accountability in Zambia, with the specific objective of instituting that demand in the public.  In line with the provisions of the ACA financial and procurement policies, the ACA hereby invites applications from suitably qualified individuals and organisations…

Continue Reading Invitation for Bids to Create a Site Plan

JOINT PRESS STATEMENT ON THE MURDER OF ESWATINI HUMAN RIGHTS LAWYER THULANI MASEKO

On the evening of 21st January 2023, human rights lawyer and pro-democracy activist, Thulani Maseko, was assassinated at his home in Eswatini. The undersigned organisations would like, first of all, to offer our deepest condolences to Thulani’s wife, Tanele, his two children, his wider family, and the human rights community of Eswatini. Final Thulani Maseko…

Continue Reading JOINT PRESS STATEMENT ON THE MURDER OF ESWATINI HUMAN RIGHTS LAWYER THULANI MASEKO

JOINT PRESS STATEMENT ON THE ZLDC SUBMISSION OF THE PUBLIC GATHERING BILL

JOINT PRESS STATEMENT ON THE ZLDC SUBMISSION OF THE PUBLIC GATHERING BILL TO MOHA Lusaka, 20th January 2023 Members of the Press, Ladies and Gentlemen, Greetings to you all As you may be aware, on Monday 16th January 2023, the Zambia Law Development Commission concluded its work on the review of the Public Order Act…

Continue Reading JOINT PRESS STATEMENT ON THE ZLDC SUBMISSION OF THE PUBLIC GATHERING BILL

Registration of Suppliers of Goods and Services for 2023

The Alliance for Community Action (ACA) is a non-governmental organisation whose main objective is to grow the routine and systematic demand for public resource accountability in Zambia, with the specific objective of instituting that demand in the public.In line with the provisions of the ACA financial and procurement policies, the ACA hereby invites applications from organisations and individuals to register as…

Continue Reading Registration of Suppliers of Goods and Services for 2023

Zambia Law Development Commission hands over Public Order Act Review Report and draft Bill

The Zambia Law Development Commission (ZLDC) has handed over a project report and a draft bill on the review of the Public Order Act Chapter 113 of the Laws of Zambia to the Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Hon. Jack Mwiimbu. Review Report (Full and Summarised) REPORT-ON-THE-REVIEW-OF-THE-PUBLIC-ORDER-ACT-2023_compressedDownload SUMMARY-REPORT-ON-THE-REVIEW-OF-THE-PUBLIC-ORDER-ACT-2023_compressedDownload PRESENTATION ON THE REVIEW OF…

Continue Reading Zambia Law Development Commission hands over Public Order Act Review Report and draft Bill

Call for Applications – Consultant for Production of Video Documentary

Introduction The ACA was set up in 2013 and works towards the articulated vision of “a Zambia in which all her citizens enjoy the full and equitable benefit of all her resources”. The Alliance for Community Action (ACA) works to grow the routine and systematic demand for public resource accountability in Zambia, with the specific…

Continue Reading Call for Applications – Consultant for Production of Video Documentary

Did Kenneth Kaunda International Airport Beat any Others to be Awarded Best Airport in Africa?

Claim being Checked: Did Kenneth Kaunda International Airport Beat any Others to be Awarded Best Airport in Africa? Background: On Wednesday 2nd November 2022 a news story was published to the effect that Lusaka’s Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) had been awarded the accolade of the best Airport in Africa by the World Luxury Travel…

Continue Reading Did Kenneth Kaunda International Airport Beat any Others to be Awarded Best Airport in Africa?

African Union Day: Zambia’s Contribution to the Development of the Continent.

The African Union Day is a day that reminds us of the continent’s effort to address cross-cutting issues that impact citizens in every country. This year, African Union Day is celebrated under the theme, “Our Africa, Our Future” which revolves around Agenda 2063, a master plan for transforming Africa into the global powerhouse of the…

Continue Reading African Union Day: Zambia’s Contribution to the Development of the Continent.

Zambia: Auditors Expose 9,800 Ghost Workers in Government Ministries

Published: 08 September 2022 WRITTEN BY JOSEF SKRDLIK The audit of government payroll by Zambia’s Office of the Auditor General published this week reveals a series of grave misuse of public money including that in 2017-2021, ministries paid more than US$45 million in regular salaries to 9,800 apparently non-existent individuals. “As of July 31, the…

Continue Reading Zambia: Auditors Expose 9,800 Ghost Workers in Government Ministries

TERMS OF REFERENCE (TORs) FOR EVALUATION OF THE ASK PROJECT

Introduction The Alliance for Community Action is seeking the services of a consultant to carry out an evaluation of the Ask Project an initiative implemented by the ACA and Caritas Zambia from 2019 – 2022. Background The Alliance for Community Action is a Zambian non-governmental organization founded in 2013.  The ACA’s core purpose is to…

Continue Reading TERMS OF REFERENCE (TORs) FOR EVALUATION OF THE ASK PROJECT

Can citizens check declarations of MPs and Ministers at the National Assembly and the Electoral Commission of Zambia?

Claim being checked: Can citizens check declarations of the assets, interests, liabilities, and income of Members of Parliament and Ministers at the National Assembly and the Electoral Commission of Zambia? Background: On the 25th of March 2022, the Alliance for Community Action (ACA) Fact-checking Unit inspected the Asset Declaration Register at the Supreme Court for…

Continue Reading Can citizens check declarations of MPs and Ministers at the National Assembly and the Electoral Commission of Zambia?

JOINT CSO STATEMENT ON ENGAGING GOVERNMENT TO ENSURE COMPLIANCE WITH THE PARLIAMENTARY AND MINISTERIAL CODE OF CONDUCT

Alliance for Community Action, Chapter One Foundation, and Transparency International Zambia have a mandate that includes the pursuit of transparency and accountability in public resource management, to stem corruption, and to uphold and protect the rule of law, constitutionalism, and good governance. Pursuant to those objectives, we are concerned that most of the public officials…

Continue Reading JOINT CSO STATEMENT ON ENGAGING GOVERNMENT TO ENSURE COMPLIANCE WITH THE PARLIAMENTARY AND MINISTERIAL CODE OF CONDUCT

Have all Ministers Declared their Assets and Liabilities in accordance with the Law?

Background: On 6th March 2022, Chapter One Foundation released a press statement that stated that there was low compliance with the Parliamentary and Ministerial Code of Conduct Act among Cabinet Ministers. The statement showed that only a few ministers had filed their statutory declarations of assets, liabilities, interests, and income as required by law. Later,…

Continue Reading Have all Ministers Declared their Assets and Liabilities in accordance with the Law?

We have found “the Office of the Filer” and we looked at the files!

The current “Office of The Filer” is the Registrar of the Supreme Court, who is appointed by the Chief Justice in accordance with Section 11(2) of the Parliamentary and Ministerial Code of Conduct Act. Background Following the public interest in the “Office of The Filer” video extract, shared by the ACA which was circulated widely on…

Continue Reading We have found “the Office of the Filer” and we looked at the files!

The ACA’s position on the 2022 CDF Guidelines

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Thursday 2nd March 2022 Contact:Andrew Banda, Information and Advocacy OfficerAlliance for Community Actionandrew.banda@acazambia.org, 0978954948 The Alliance for Community Action (ACA) has studied the CDF Guidelines released by the Minister of Local Government and we wish to share our immediate observations. The ACA welcomes the release of the 2022 Constituency Development Fund (CDF)…

Continue Reading The ACA’s position on the 2022 CDF Guidelines

ZLDC review of the Penal Code and Criminal Procedure Act Fact-Checks

Does the ZLDC Report propose decriminalisation of bigamy? Following the release of the Zam Law Development Commission review of the Penal Code & Criminal Procedure Acts, the debate suggests that the report proposes that bigamy be decriminalised in favour of polygamy. The ACA Fact Checking Unit verifies this & sets out other proposals in the…

Continue Reading ZLDC review of the Penal Code and Criminal Procedure Act Fact-Checks

JOINT CSO STATEMENT ON RECENT BREACHES OF THE RULE OF LAW IN THE NEW DAWN ADMINISTRATION

PRESS STATEMENT For Immediate Release 26th January 2022 JOINT CSO STATEMENT ON RECENT BREACHES OF THE RULE OF LAW IN THE NEW DAWN ADMINISTRATION We the undersigned Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have noted with great concern the recent governance breaches by some key figures in the new UPND Administration that have the potential to undermine the…

Continue Reading JOINT CSO STATEMENT ON RECENT BREACHES OF THE RULE OF LAW IN THE NEW DAWN ADMINISTRATION

Registration of Suppliers of Goods and Services for 2022

The Alliance for Community Action (ACA) is a non-governmental organisation whose main objective is to grow the routine and systematic demand for public resource accountability in Zambia, with the specific objective of instituting that demand in the public. In line with the provisions of the ACA financial and procurement policies, the ACA hereby invites applications from organisations and individuals to register…

Continue Reading Registration of Suppliers of Goods and Services for 2022

It is an offence not to display the presidential portrait in Zambia?

Following allegations that some Choma UPND youths attempted to close the local Debonairs franchise on account of not displaying the presidential portrait on the business premises, we republish a fact-check we did in 2018. At that time, then Kitwe District Commissioner Binwell Mpundu had reportedly threatened to close businesses not displaying or having the wrong…

Continue Reading It is an offence not to display the presidential portrait in Zambia?

Job Vacancy – Digital Engagement Officer

Job Title: Digital Engagement OfficerStart date: As soon as possibleContract Type: Part-time (2.5 days per week), fixed-term contract through ACA (our fiscal host organisation), extendable by mutual agreement and subject to available funds.Salary: A competitive salary will be offered commensurate with skills and experience The Fight Inequality Alliance Zambia is seeking a strong and dynamic…

Continue Reading Job Vacancy – Digital Engagement Officer

Promise Check: Construct and establish universities in each province

Promise Being Checked: Construct and establish universities in each province (Eastern, Northern, Southern and North-Western Provinces). BACKGROUNDElections in Zambia take place within the framework of a multi-party democracy with elections held every five years. Electoral manifestos play a crucial role in the electoral process as they illustrate a party’s vision for the country if elected…

Continue Reading Promise Check: Construct and establish universities in each province

Promise Being Checked: Construct and establish universities in each province

BACKGROUNDElections in Zambia take place within the framework of a multi-party democracy with elections held every five years. Electoral manifestos play a crucial role in the electoral process as they illustrate a party’s vision for the country if elected to office. An election manifesto is essentially a list of plans and policies that a political…

Continue Reading Promise Being Checked: Construct and establish universities in each province

Did Government really increase the monthly allowances for Social Cash Transfer (SCT)?

BACKGROUNDOn 26th September 2020, Finance Minister Bwalya Ngandu disclosed, as he unveiled the proposed 2021 national budget in Lusaka, that the government of Zambia will increase the monthly allowances for Social Cash Transfer (SCT) beneficiaries from the current K90 to K110.In line with the above statements, the ACA conducted a fact-checking exercise around the use…

Continue Reading Did Government really increase the monthly allowances for Social Cash Transfer (SCT)?

Did Government really increase the monthly allowances for Social Cash Transfer (SCT)?

BACKGROUNDOn 26th September 2020, Finance Minister Bwalya Ngandu disclosed, as he unveiled the proposed 2021 national budget in Lusaka, that the government of Zambia will increase the monthly allowances for Social Cash Transfer (SCT) beneficiaries from the current K90 to K110.In line with the above statements, the ACA conducted a fact-checking exercise around the use…

Continue Reading Did Government really increase the monthly allowances for Social Cash Transfer (SCT)?

Is the lack of information on COVID19 Donations in the Auditor Generals Report an indication that the Government of Zambia misapplied COVID-19 resources?

BackgroundIn 2020, the Auditor General’s Office carried out a review of records relating to the fight against COVID-19 at the Ministry of Finance (MoF), Ministry of Health (MoH), Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) and selected districts.The Report of the Auditor-General reviewed that as of 31st July 2020, Zambia had received pledges and commitments from…

Continue Reading Is the lack of information on COVID19 Donations in the Auditor Generals Report an indication that the Government of Zambia misapplied COVID-19 resources?

Is the lack of information on COVID19 Donations in the Auditor Generals Report an indication that the Government of Zambia misapplied COVID-19 resources?

BackgroundIn 2020, the Auditor General’s Office carried out a review of records relating to the fight against COVID-19 at the Ministry of Finance (MoF), Ministry of Health (MoH), Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) and selected districts.The Report of the Auditor-General reviewed that as of 31st July 2020, Zambia had received pledges and commitments from…

Continue Reading Is the lack of information on COVID19 Donations in the Auditor Generals Report an indication that the Government of Zambia misapplied COVID-19 resources?

JOINT CSO PRESS STATEMENT DATED 18TH FEBRUARY 2021 ON THE PROPOSED CYBER SECURITY AND CYBER CRIMES BILL

We, the undersigned civil society organisations, note the proposed changes to the law regulating the cyber space in form of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Bill of 2021. While it is imperative to ensure the safety of the public at large against cyber security threats, this must invariably be balanced with the right to…

Continue Reading JOINT CSO PRESS STATEMENT DATED 18TH FEBRUARY 2021 ON THE PROPOSED CYBER SECURITY AND CYBER CRIMES BILL

Should the National Assembly have Appointed former Minister of Health Dr Chitalu Chilufya to the Parliamentary Budget Committee?

CLAIM CHECKED:It is against good governance, public interest and best practice to appoint former Minister of Health and Mansa Central MP, Dr. Chitalu Chilufya, to a parliamentary committee. He has been appointed to another job after being recently fired. BACKGROUNDOn the 26th of January 2021, various media outlets reported that former Minister of Health and,…

Continue Reading Should the National Assembly have Appointed former Minister of Health Dr Chitalu Chilufya to the Parliamentary Budget Committee?

PRESS STATEMENT ON THE SETTLEMENT OF ILLEGALLY EARNED EMOLUMENTS BY MINISTERS

LUSAKA, Monday 18 January 2021 The Alliance for Community Action is deeply concerned with the non-disclosure of the purported well-wishers who settled legal debts owed to the treasury by former ministers who illegally stayed in office after the dissolution of parliament in 2016 as ordered by the Constitutional Court. According to media reports quoting the…

Continue Reading PRESS STATEMENT ON THE SETTLEMENT OF ILLEGALLY EARNED EMOLUMENTS BY MINISTERS

Registration of Suppliers of Goods and Services for 2021

The Alliance for Community Action (ACA) is a non-governmental organisation whose main objective is to grow the routine and systematic demand for public resource accountability in Zambia, with the specific objective of instituting that demand in the public.In line with the provisions of the ACA financial and procurement policies, the ACA hereby invites applications from…

Continue Reading Registration of Suppliers of Goods and Services for 2021

TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR EVALUATION OF THE ACA STRATEGIC PLAN

Introduction The Alliance for Community Action is seeking the services of a Consultant to carry out an evaluation of the implementation of its Strategic Plan 2017-2021 Background The Alliance for Community Action is a Zambian non-governmental organization founded in 2013. The ACA’s core purpose is to grow the demand and supply of public resource accountability,…

Continue Reading TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR EVALUATION OF THE ACA STRATEGIC PLAN

Social Cash Transfer – The Situation on the Ground Introduction

Introduction On Saturday 10th October 2020, President Edgar Lungu posted the following statement on his official Facebook page:”Social cash transfer, food security packs, emergency cash transfer scheme, and supporting women livelihood programmes are some of the avenues in which government is able to respond to the needs of the most vulnerable people in society with…

Continue Reading Social Cash Transfer – The Situation on the Ground Introduction

ACA and Orodata embark on a collaboration Project

The Alliance for Community Action (ACA) and Orodata Science (ODS) are happy to announce a collaboration project “Tipende – a data-driven social accountability project”.The project will include capacity development on data reporting technologies towards evidence-based social accountability and advocacy. It will equip citizens and civil society organizations (CSOs) with skills and knowledge to leverage rights-based…

Continue Reading ACA and Orodata embark on a collaboration Project

Invitation for Bids – Project Logo Design

BackgroundSPEAK UP GIRLS PROJECT is a project implemented by the Alliance for Community Action with support from the German Corporation for International Cooperation GmbH (GIZ).SPEAK UP GIRLS PROJECT aims at improving conditions for digital media use in order to increase active political and social participation specifically by girls and women in two rural pilot regions…

Continue Reading Invitation for Bids – Project Logo Design

Does the Constitutional Amendment Bill 10 provide that pensions will be paid promptly and regularly?

Claim checked:In Bill 10, Pensioners will be paid promptly and regularly. (Claim made by the Policy Monitoring and Research Centre (PMRC) BackgroundA robust and polarised debate has been going in Zambia over the constitutional amendment process that the country is currently undertaking. The debate is centred on the Constitutional Amendment Bill 10, of 2019 that…

Continue Reading Does the Constitutional Amendment Bill 10 provide that pensions will be paid promptly and regularly?

Covid-19 Donations

The Alliance for Community Action with support from the Open Society Initiative for Southern Africa (OSISA) and Takwimu has broken down COVID-19 donations received by Government between the 1st March and 30th April 2020. Below are excerpts of the data, download the detailed data-set below after the excerpts. BREAKDOWN OF ZAMBIA COVID-19 DONATIONS TO APRIL…

Continue Reading Covid-19 Donations

Is the Zambia Railways train moving at a higher speed since $120 Million U.S Dollars was invested in the company?

We got on the train to find out to what extent the stated reason for investing 120 million U.S Dollars of Euro-bond money had been achieved.The money was meant to be invested in rolling stock (trains – locomotives, coaches, etc) thereby improving services and most importantly the speed at which the trains moved.Was this achieved?…

Continue Reading Is the Zambia Railways train moving at a higher speed since $120 Million U.S Dollars was invested in the company?

Are Ministers declaring their assets, interests, liabilities, and incomes?

Issue to be Investigated 🔍🔎 The Alliance for Community Action (ACA) works to strengthen public resource management accountability, in Zambia. In this regard, the ACA, cooperating with other CSOs, advocates for laws to be passed that will strengthen the legislative framework underpinning public resource management and accountability. In connection with this, the ACA Fact Checking Unit…

Continue Reading Are Ministers declaring their assets, interests, liabilities, and incomes?

THE ARREST OF PILATO-FUMBA CHAMA ILLEGAL: LAURA MITI AND HER DEPUTY BORNWELL MWEWA DETAINED ALSO IN LIVINGSTONE

The arrest of Chama Fumba popularly known as “Pilato” in Livingstone at a Roman Catholic Church premise is unwarranted, illegal and an assault not only to the constitutionally guaranteed fundamental freedoms and liberties enshrined in the Bill of Rights of the Zambia Constitution but also to the survival of democracy. The constitution amendment act number…

Continue Reading THE ARREST OF PILATO-FUMBA CHAMA ILLEGAL: LAURA MITI AND HER DEPUTY BORNWELL MWEWA DETAINED ALSO IN LIVINGSTONE

Our Week Nov 18 – Nov 23

Top 10 Money Wasters Here are some cases in the AGs Report that led to Lusaka City Council topping the list as the Biggest Loser. Click here to follow the conversation on Twitter. You can also follow the conversation on our Facebook page by clicking here. National Youth Insaka 2019 Youths from various towns came together to…

Continue Reading Our Week Nov 18 – Nov 23

Our Week Oct 28 – Nov 1 2019

Top 10 Money Wasters We have ranked the top 10 councils that wasted public money according to the Auditor-General’s report on accounts for local authorities in the country. Click here to join the conversation on twitter You can also follow the conversation on our Facebook page by clicking here. How much did you lose? Here…

Continue Reading Our Week Oct 28 – Nov 1 2019

Minister Mushimba Fails to Prove He Paid for his Medical Evacuation to South Africa

On the 27th of February 2019, then Minister of Transport and Communication, Dr Brian Mushimba, stated on his Twitter page that he had paid the cost of his evacuation to South Africa for treatment of a broken arm sustained in a car accident, from his own resources. He further said he was willing to prove…

Continue Reading Minister Mushimba Fails to Prove He Paid for his Medical Evacuation to South Africa

NDC Deregistration – Is Another Roan By-election Looming?

Claim checked: The de-registration of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)by the Registrar of societies means that the party’s Roan parliamentary seat held by Mr Joseph Chishala becomes vacant leading to an upcoming by-election in the said Roan Constituency. Following the announcement of the deregistration of the National Democratic Congress, (NDC) by the Registrar of Societies…

Continue Reading NDC Deregistration – Is Another Roan By-election Looming?

Was National Dialogue Forum Delegate from a Ghost University?

On the 5th of May 2019, a number of Civil Society Organisations participating in the National Dialogue Forum (NDF) announced the formation of the Constitutional Reform and Education Coalition (CRECO). The coalition stated its aim as “to protect the content as agreed by stakeholders of the NDF process.” The constituting members of the coalition and…

Continue Reading Was National Dialogue Forum Delegate from a Ghost University?

End of Year Thank You

Thank you for an amazing year! We wouldn’t have been able to do it without your support, your every share, your every like and more increased the demand for accountability. To a more successful 2019! Here is a summary of what our year has been like. #42for42 #MedsTheftZambia #fic #Zambia #DebtConcernsMe #SpeakUpZambia  

Continue Reading End of Year Thank You