Southern Africa: Zimbabwe to Host SADC Anti-Corruption Expo and Games

What the report says

Zimbabwe will host a three-day SADC Anti-Corruption Expo and Games in Victoria Falls from 17 to 19 September, according to a report distributed by AllAfrica from 263Chat. The event is being organised by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) and is expected to draw more than 800 anti-corruption practitioners from eight Southern African Development Community member states.

ZACC chairperson Michael Reza said Vice-President Kembo Mohadi is expected to open the gathering. The programme will include a cultural showcase, sporting competitions and an exhibition at Chinotimba Stadium. The games are set to feature volleyball for men and women, soccer and netball, with organisers saying the activities are meant to encourage networking, teamwork and closer ties among anti-corruption officials.

The exhibition is intended to give participating states a chance to compare anti-corruption strategies and best practices. ZACC also said a procession will be held to raise awareness of the SADC Protocol Against Corruption and to signal regional unity. As part of preparations, ZACC and local partners upgraded sports facilities at Chinotimba Stadium, including new netball and volleyball courts, which officials say will remain as a community asset after the event.

The report says Zimbabwe views the hosting rights as a way to reinforce its commitment to regional and wider anti-corruption frameworks, including SADC, African Union and United Nations conventions. It also follows Zimbabwe’s showing at the previous expo in Namibia, where it won the Best Exhibitor Award and several medals in the sporting events.