By Chisomo Kambandanga

Nkhata Bay, October 31, Mana: Nkhata Bay District Commissioner (DC) Rodgers Newa has warned junior staff members across various sectors at the council to avoid getting exploited in their course of duty.

Newa gave the warning Wednesday when opening a two-day junior staff involvement meeting organized by the Institutional Integrity Committee (ICC) aiming at educating and empowering junior staff on the importance of institutional integrity and equipping them to contribute to a corruption-free work environment.

“You are the backbone of this district’s development because you are exposed to various information and government resources. Don’t allow anyone to exploit or use you for personal gains.

 "At all costs, avoid any corrupt practices because once caught I will not defend you and remember it is your families that will suffer,” Newa said.

According to Newa, the council established the ICC to safeguard finances and materials and ensure transparency and accountability among others.

“Corruption issues affect everyone. If you suspect or witness suspicious activities blow the whistle to the committee that you are introduced to and confidentiality is guaranteed,” he added.

In his remarks, security guard at the education department Ken Chulu commended the council for the meeting, saying it enlightened them on several things that will ease their work.

“We feel valued and protected. The warning gives us confidence to report any misconduct and we wish such meetings to be happening at regular intervals,” he said.