The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) of Namibia officially opened its 5th office countrywide, with the latest being the Rundu Branch in Kavango East.

The Rundu Office will cater to both the Kavango East, West, and Zambezi Regions.

The opening of the Rundu office coincided with International Anti-Corruption Day, commemorated each year on 9th December.

The initiative was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2003 to raise awareness about corruption and mobilize efforts to combat it.

This year, the day is being commemorated under the theme, "Uniting with youth against corruption. Shaping tomorrow's integrity."

"For every dollar embezzled, a scholarship is lost, a classroom remains underfunded, and a future is compromised. For every dishonest act, a young entrepreneur is denied the chance to innovate, a graduate struggles to find meaningful employment, and a community loses faith in the promise of progress. Every unjust decision is a blow to our confidence in the system and a betrayal of the trust we place in our leaders."

ACC Director General Paulus Noa says to date, the Commission has referred 817 dockets to the Prosecutor General's office for a decision to prosecute.

This has resulted in 413 cases being concluded in criminal courts. Other cases are either still pending or were dealt with differently.

"Corruption can be very destructive if it is not confronted with vigor and uncompromising commitment, especially from the highest authority of political leadership. Corruption causes poor public service delivery, mismanagement of public resources, fewer opportunities for economic growth, a high unemployment rate, mistrust in political leadership, and public instability. When corruption is allowed to deepen its roots in society, we must expect the worst."

Kavango East Governor Bonifatius Wakudumo has urged residents from the neighboring regions to make use of the newly opened office.

"I have observed that it is generally common for people to feel intimidated when they hear the words 'Anti-Corruption Commission.' But let me be clear and reassure you: this office is not here to instill fear. Instead, it is a watchdog dedicated to protecting our public resources and safeguarding our collective interests. It stands as a pillar of hope in our commitment to good governance. People of Kavango West, Kavango East, and Zambezi regions, I urge you all to engage with our officials, keep this office busy, and report any suspicions or concerns you may have; this is a partnership we must foster together."

Apart from Rundu, ACC has offices in Windhoek, Otjiwarongo, Swakopmund, and Oshakati.