ACC arrests two officials over $10 million livestock project funds

The Anti-Corruption Commission has arrested two officials from the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries in connection with the alleged misappropriation of funds from the Sustainable Livestock Infrastructure Management Project, a programme valued at about US$10 million. The arrests form part of an ongoing investigation into how resources meant to strengthen Zambia’s livestock sector were managed.

Authorities identified the suspects as Succeed Mubanga, director of policy, planning and information at the ministry, and Chanda Mulenga, a stores officer. Both have been charged with offences related to possession and concealment of property suspected to be proceeds of crime.

According to the Anti-Corruption Commission, the investigation centres on funds allocated to the Sustainable Livestock Infrastructure Management Project, commonly referred to as SLIMP. The programme was designed to support livestock infrastructure development and improve productivity in the sector.

Investigators say financial analysis revealed suspicious asset acquisitions linked to individuals connected to the project. Some of the suspected proceeds of crime were allegedly used to purchase property and other assets.

The Anti-Corruption Commission says Mubanga faces two counts of possession of property reasonably suspected to be proceeds of crime and two counts of concealment of property. Authorities allege the assets include a motor vehicle, a residential property and investments in government bonds.

Mulenga has been charged with one count of possession of property suspected to be proceeds of crime and two counts of concealment of property. Investigators say one of the properties linked to the case includes a modern house located in Kasama District.

The charges have been brought under the Forfeiture of Proceeds of Crime Act No. 19 of 2010, legislation that allows authorities to investigate and recover assets believed to have been obtained through criminal activity.

The Anti-Corruption Commission said the arrests followed what it described as a comprehensive investigation into the management of funds under the livestock infrastructure programme. Officials say the probe involved tracing financial transactions and asset ownership connected to the project.

Authorities say the arrests of Mubanga and Mulenga bring the total number of suspects linked to the case to nine individuals. The commission has indicated that investigations remain active and that additional arrests could follow as more financial records are examined.

Both suspects have since been released on bond and are expected to appear in court as the legal process proceeds. The Anti-Corruption Commission says it has also moved to restrict and potentially seize assets suspected to be linked to the alleged misappropriation.

The livestock sector remains an important component of Zambia’s agricultural economy, particularly in rural areas where many households depend on livestock production for income and food security.

Government and development partners have invested heavily in programmes aimed at improving livestock infrastructure, veterinary services and disease control systems. Projects such as the Sustainable Livestock Infrastructure Management Project were designed to strengthen livestock value chains and expand opportunities for farmers.

Investigators say ensuring that such funds are used for their intended purposes is critical for maintaining public confidence in development programmes. The Anti-Corruption Commission says it will continue pursuing cases involving suspected misuse of public resources as the investigation progresses.