The International Institute of Certified Forensic Investigations Professionals says Government should be serious on the utilisation of foreign direct investment.
IICF Liaison director for Africa Gibson Mwewa says government should stop wasting tax payers money on political rhetorics.
In a statement, Prof Mwewa states that FDI can positively contribute to to the growth of any country if well used for the intended purposes.
“FDI can make a positive contribution to the host economy by supplying; Capital required for investment, Modern Technology / equipment, Expert management resources that would otherwise not be available in addition to bringing jobs to a host country that would otherwise not be created,” Prof Mwewa stated.
“However, the management of FDI agreement to corrupt prone countries can be problematic and in some cases the advantage anticipated from FDI are lost due to the fact that the foreign investors are offered huge incentives such as; Tax breaks,Exemptions from statutory contributions, Capital investment concessions, Free land allocation.”
He stated that there is serious need for a forensic investigation on FDI in Zambia.
Prof Mwewa, however stated that not any person because of their connections with government can carry out investigations on FDI.
“The term forensic investigation or forensic audit should never be used for routine inspections or spot checks or ceremonial fact-finding missions.It is not a job for any Jim and Jack regardless of their standing in society- if they are not qualified they should not pretend to be an expert in forensic investigations,” he stated.
“There have been so many pronouncements by successive governments regarding the appointment of forensic teams to investigate the mines – but the reports produced are far below forensic standards.
“It looks like people are more interested in allowances and the use of the term forensic investigation as a cover-up when they should just be saying they are actually conducting familiarisation tours.This is why it is our appeal that the call for audit and investigations of the mines by government will be one that will be done with the necessary expertise and professionalism than political rhetoric. The mines require a robust technical investigation that will see Zambia in general benefiting,” Prof Mwewa stated.