Corruption will undermine Malawi’s response to Covid-19 – Alliance

The National Anti-Corruption Alliance (NACA) said corruption in Malawi will undermine the effort to fight against corona virus.

According to NACA, there are thieves looking to profit from the Covid-19 pandemic funds.

The alliance issued the warning in a statement on Monday signed by Chairperson Moses Mkandawire.

According to Mkandawire, emergencies such as this one, while threatening lives, also provide opportunities for thieves to steal more when oversight institutions are weak.

“We have learned from previous disasters that even in times of crisis, there are those who aim to profit from others’ misfortune,” he said.

Mkandawire then urged government to be transparent in how it is managing public resources, saying there are cracks in Malawi’s procurement systems which provide potential risks and opportunities for corruption.

“The procurement of medicines and supplies in health systems is typically one of the most vulnerable areas for corruption.

“With the covid-19 pandemic, monitoring corruption in public procurement in the health sector is more essential than ever.

He said there is a need  to monitor, for example, how procurement of drugs and essential supplies, such as face masks and gloves, is being carried out and raise red flags if we notice something amiss.

The country has currently reported seven active cases of corona virus and one death.